BayouLife Magazine June 2018

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JUNE 2018

228 32 / BAYOU ARTIST: LEAH REITZELL To Her Students, Peers and Family, Leah Reitzell is a Powerhouse of Energy for Good. She’s a Full-Time Teacher, Mother of Three and Working Artist 52 / WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU’RE WEDDING A Guide for New Brides and Grooms for Navigating the Practical Side of Newlyweds 78 / WELCOME TO THE (BRIDAL) PARTY Take the Duties of Being a Bridesmaid or Groomsman to the Next Level with These Easy Tips 100/ WEDDING PANNING ADVICE FROM THE PROFESSIONALS Three Local Professionals Give Their Best Tips for Local Brides

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104 / WEDDING VENDOR DIRECTORY A Resource for Local Couples Getting Ready for Their Big Day 116 / BRIDAL BOUQUETS Beautiful Blooms are Masterfully Arranged into Gorgeous Wedding Bouquets by North Louisiana’s Best Floral Decorators

Culminated into His Restaurant, Catfish Charlie’s 210 / GARDEN PARTY Looking for the Perfect Attire for a Summer Party? Choose an Outfit That is Cool, Yet Classically Elegant.

APRIL 2018

124 / HERE’S TOMMY The Life and Career of Monroe’s Greatest Host, Bayou DeSiard Coutnry Club’s Tommy Harris 150 / BAYOU ICON: MAYOR DAVE NORRIS The Uncommon Lives, Careers and Sincerity of Louisiana’s Longest Serving Mayor 184/ SERVING HERITAGE Doug Wood’s Love for Cooking is a Valued Family Inheritance

220 / THE HUMAN JUKEBOX Josh Madden is No Stranger to the North Louisiana Music Scene. He’s Been Dubbed the Human Jukebox Because of His Familiarity with a Variety of Different Music Genres 228/ ENGAGING DESIGNS These Bridal Baubles Will Have You Picture Perfect on Your Wedding Day

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BayouLife

HINGS HAVE REALLY

changed over the last twelve years since I was married. There are cigar bars, prosecco vans, flower arrangements hanging from the ceiling – all amazing things, but nothing that was on the radar years ago. Thankfully, our vendors are all on top of their game, and we’ve compiled the best of the best in this month’s issue.

I absolutely loved my wedding. I was married at the home of the late Vikki Sims and Don Sims in Bastrop. It was gorgeous, fun and extremely hot. I had an absolutely fabulous photographer, Kelly Moore Clark – and here we are working together again over a decade later. Kelly stepped in and knocked our fashion shoot out of the park.

We are so thankful for the Marx family for letting us use their gorgeous gardens. Ellie Jackson and Ronnie Scott, Jr. both looked stunning in summer’s hautest wedding wear. Check it out on page 209- 216.

When you work for BayouLife, it’s best to be prepared to take on multiple roles. This month we dressed our intern, Rachel Dolecheck, in gowns from Eleven 26 for our wedding bouquet shoot. Special thanks to Pampered & Polished for prepping her nails. Check out this shoot on page 116.

I guess I should mention that my staff aren’t the only people in my life that I ask to multi-task, family are also not off-limits. This month my breathtaking niece, Anna Grace Livingston, models bridal baubles from local jewelers. Taylor Bennett stepped behind the camera to capture these images. Special thanks to Magnolia Mariée in Natchez for allowing us to use their stunning wedding gowns.

Find these on page 228.

I’ve known Leah Reitzell for a few years. I first saw her artwork during

1201 Royal Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 Phone 318.855.3185 Fax 318.855.4645

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a Downtown Gallery Crawl and most recently saw that she was creating a live painting at a local wedding. Naturally, she was a perfect fit for this month’s BayouArtist. Leah is a mother of three, full-time teacher and artist extraordinaire.

Read Leah’s story on page 32.

When West Monroe Mayor Dave Norris exits West Monroe City Hall for the last time on June 30th, he’ll leave behind an office he’s held for four decades and a city he’s transformed with an almost fanatical zeal for doing the right thing.

Along the way, he’s hosted a popular morning show, taught generations of business majors at two of the region’s major universities, led worship and music at McGuire Methodist Church, and he’s done it all while raising a family. He is this month’s BayouIcon. Read his article on page 150.

We are super excited to kick-off this year’s 2nd Annual Bayou Buzz Awards.

Make sure to log on to our website www. bayoulifemag.com and click on the link to access the survey. You can also find it on our Facebook page. We sincerely hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue of BayouLife Magazine. And, a very special thank you out there to all the dads (mine especially) for your unwavering love.

Happy Father’s Day!

PUBLISHER Cassie Livingston cassie@bayoulifemag.com EDITOR Maré Brennan mare@bayoulifemag.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Moffett melanie@bayoulifemag.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER Ashley Hubenthal ashley@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Ali Garriga ali@bayoulifemag.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Amanda Singley amanda@bayoulifemag.com PHOTO STYLIST Taylor Bennett CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dan Chason Kenny Covington Mary Kathryn Crigler Lou Davenport Michael DeVault Marcia Donald Cindy Gist Foust Lori French Dr. Grant Glover April Honaker Paul Lipe Erin Sharplin Love Meredith McKinnie

Dr. Timothy Mickel Guy Miller Evelyn O’Neal Whitney Peters Vanelis Rivera Cathi French Roberts Delia Simpson Brittany Soto P. Allen Smith Beatrice A. Tatem Phil Trahan Judy Wagoner

Cassie Livingston GARDEN PARTY PAGE 209

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Arender Kelly Moore Clark Scarlett Garcia ON THE COVER Eva Edinger wears a beautiful gown from Magnolia Mariée. Flowers by fine folks by Lindsey and Taylor.

Photography by Kelly Moore Clark BayouLife Magazine is published and distributed by Redbird Publishing, LLC. Circulation: 13,500 copies monthly. Postal subscriptions ($30) can be ordered online at www.bayoulifemag. com. BayouLife Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts or other materials. Reproduction of contents without express written permission is prohibited.

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Washington Wine and Spirits Elijah Craig and Smooth Ambler Old Scout WWS Picked Whiskey Barrels

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ASHINGTON WINE AND SPIRITS IS PROUD TO announce that we will be debuting two new Store Pick whiskey barrels! We have recently acquired a barrel of 10 year old Elijah Craig and a barrel of Smooth Ambler Old Scout 107.

These store picks are sure to go fast, so stop by the store and reserve your bottles today!

Many of you have heard the terms Private Barrel or Store Pick.

While these words are commonly used amongst experienced whiskey drinkers, they may not mean much to those who are not. I’m about to tell you everything you’ll ever want to know about the Private Barrel or Store Pick.

The concept of a Private Barrel is pretty basic. The term Store Pick is just a synonym for Private Barrel. A retailer, bar or restaurant wants their exclusive barrel of a whiskey, and they approach the distillery or a distributor to work out the deal. It is bottled and labeled in such a way as to make it clear it was something other than an ordinary, standard release. But, before I can offer further details, I have to give you some background, and I’ll start with the difference between Batch and Single Barrel whiskeys.

SMALL BATCH WHISKEY

Many of the whiskeys on your typical store shelf are bottled in batches. A fun term that distillers enjoy tossing around is a small batch.

A small batch suggests the distiller used a smaller number of barrels in a batch, but there’s not a legal definition. As such, a small batch can be two barrels or two hundred barrels. As a rule of thumb, smaller batches can differ from batch to batch. The larger the number of barrels used in a batch, the more consistent the taste will be from bottle to bottle, year after year. If you buy a bottle of these mainline whiskeys, you can rely on tasting notes from anyone being relatively similar to the ones you’d experience, no matter where you purchase the bottle.

SINGLE BARREL WHISKEY

Single barrel whiskeys are a lot of fun, but they can also be a bit aggravating. You’ll find that people talk up how great a single barrel whiskey is, they’ll tell you about the aromas, the flavors, the mouthfeel and the finish, but when you find the “same” bottle and try it, it is like you’re sipping a completely different whiskey. The reason for that is because you are drinking a different whiskey. No two barrels are exactly alike. They can share the same mash bill, can be aged the same amount

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of time, can be sitting right next to each other in the same rickhouse, but the liquid sunshine in those barrels are different. That’s because other factors come into play, notably the barrel itself.

PRIVATE BARREL OR STORE PICK

A Private Barrel should not be confused with a generic, or store brand. Instead, the Private Barrel goes a few steps beyond the Single Barrel. With a standard single barrel whiskey, the distillery is in control.

The distillery controls what barrel is bottled. The distillery chooses how much to proof it down, and thus how many bottles are offered. Then it goes to a distributor and shipped to various stores. These bottles from the same barrel can wind up all over the country.

With a Private Barrel, the barrel purchaser usually gets control. The purchaser selects the barrel, the purchaser can select a proof based upon what the distillery is willing to offer. The Private Barrel program doesn’t stop there. In many cases, you can take labels that are typically batch whiskeys, such as Smooth Ambler or Elijah Craig, and instead buy a single barrel of it. In this case, you’re choosing from a single barrel of a whiskey that was likely destined to be poured into a batch.

Typically with Store Picks, you are getting some of the best barrels that the distillery has to offer, since you are buying a whole barrel, which makes Store Picks highly sought after.

We here at Washington Wine and Spirits are very privileged to be your spirits guides, and we are very excited to offer these one-of-a-kind whiskies to our area! We are currently taking pre-orders, so be sure to reserve your bottles, while they are available. Be on the lookout for our Store Pick Launch Party and our upcoming in-shop tastings!

Don’t forget about the Doe’s Eat Place private dining room and atrium are always available for all of your party needs, and be sure to stop by the shop and bring the Doe’s Eat Place experience home with you! These are the same steaks cooked across the hall at Doe’s, and they are the talk of the town!

6 oz Filet - $9.75 10 oz Filet - $16.24 14 oz Bone-In Filet - $39.99 1.5 lb Bone In Strip - $20.99 20 oz Ribeye - $21.24 2 lb Bone In Ribeye - $35.98 1.5 lb T-Bone - $20.99 2 lb T-Bone - $27.98 2.5 lb Porterhouse - $39.98 3 lb Porterhouse - $47.97 2-5 lb Sirloin - $9.99/lb

Lah-Goo-Knee-Tuss Beer Speaks, People Mumble

BY DELIA SIMPSON, CRAFT, SPECIALTY, AND IMPORT MANAGER, CHOICE BRANDS, INC.

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AGUNITAS BREWING COMPANY, BASED IN Petaluma, California, was founded in 1993 by Tony Magee.

Early on, Tony studied music composition at Northern Illinois University. He dropped out and moved to California in 1987 to take a sales position in San Francisco with a printing company. After a few failed ventures in the printing business, Tony was a little bit down on his luck.

For Christmas in 1992, his brother bought him a home-brew kit.

His first batch was so good that he decided to brew a second. The second was a disaster. But he still felt he was onto something, so in 1993 he decided to open a brewery. He could either pay his back income taxes or invest what he had in starting a new business. With $35,000, he bought some brewing equipment and started Lagunitas.

(His taxes did eventually get paid.)

Lagunitas began as 750 square feet of the back of an old grocery store in Forest Knolls, California. He didn’t even have a business plan. His goal was simply to sell beer and make more than it cost to brew it. He was never in it for the money, which was a good thing, because for a long time, there was none. He was in it for the people – employees, distributors, investors, and most importantly, beer drinkers.

For the first fifteen years, Tony designed all the labels, recipes and marketing copy. Later, he handed the recipe writing to a head brewer. The company had grown to 900 employees. They found it easy to market the beer, because they were different from other breweries. Parties were thrown at the brewery, and two thousand people would show up and stay for five hours. It created many stories that are still part of the brand’s lore today.

In 2005, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control investigated the brewery for several weeks. The agents tried to buy pot from the employees, but no one would sell it to them. They offered it to them for free. On St. Patrick’s Day, the agents raided the brewery and suspended their license for 20 days for not properly policing marijuana use in a licensed facility. They were nice about it, though. They allowed Tony to pick the time frame when the brewery would be shut down. During that time,

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they installed a new bottling line and came up with a brand new beer, called Undercover Investigation Shut-Down Ale.

The brand’s flagship beer is Lagunitas IPA. It is a wellrounded India Pale Ale with a bit of caramel malt barley richness to mellow out the twang of the hops. In the last few years, Lagunitas IPA has taken the top spot as the number one selling IPA in the country. Other popular brews available locally are Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’, 12th of Never, Sucks, and Sumpin’ Easy. Lil Sumpin’ Sumpin’ is a smooth and silky wheat pale ale. This unique style featuring a strong hop finish is great for IPA fans but so smooth that the hefeweizen fans dig it, too. 12th of Never was the first beer Lagunitas ever put in a can. The magical, mystical 12th of Never is a blend of Old and New School hops that play bright citrus, rich coconut and papaya-esque flavors, all on a solid stage of English puffed wheat. Named after an accident caused the brewery to be unable to produce their most popular seasonal one year, Lagunitas Sucks is a ‘cereal medley’ of barley, rye, wheat and oats. Full of complexities from the 4 grains, it is then joyously dry-hopped for that big aroma and resinous flavor. Sumpin’ Easy is just as its name implies. A healthy dose of 2-row malted barley, a bit of wheatyesque-ish-ness and loads of Ekuanot hops create a super smooth and velvety ale with a fruit and resin-y- finish like biting into a freshly picked peach. Easy! For more information, visit lagunitas.com.

Be sure to like Choice Brands on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with local happenings and new product releases.

In addition, you’ll find links to beer related articles, fun recipes and much more! Find us at facebook.com/choicebrands, twitter.com/choicebrandsinc, and instagram.com/choicebrands.

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I Do

The Power of Commitment

BY BEATRICE TATEM, PH.D., LPC-S, NCC, ACS

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“ DO”

ARE TWO SMALL WORDS suggesting dedication, promise, assurance and commitment. I recall a time as a young girl when these words caught my attention. I was at a wedding and the words “I Do” were exchanged. The couple kissed, and I giggled in reaction to what I saw as adult only behavior.

Frequently, the saying “I Do” is associated with a couple taking their wedding vows and yet at some point most of us through various life roles have made a commitment. The power of commitment is reflected in many ways, comes in all forms, at different times under various circumstances. We commit to friends and family, to colleagues and neighbors, to charities and special projects, to community organizations and civic groups, to religious associations and to ourselves. As a child I did not know the power of saying “I Do” and all that it symbolizes. I would learn in time through my own life experiences, “I Do,” are powerful words signifying one’s commitment.

I have learned the power of commitment is not just saying “I do.” It is doing it.

Commitment is the giving of ourselves willingly without hesitation or feelings of obligation. It is intentional focus and interest put into action on behalf of people, things, issues or causes we deem worthy. A commitment is something we are certain about and give our best to. Like other forms of giving, commitment can create and engender some of life’s greatest satisfaction. Commitment can come as a result of hope, inspiration, desire and determination. For some, commitment comes as a need for change, the desire to foster change in one’s life, while bringing change to the lives of others. Commitment can be a fulfilling

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endeavor and, when actualized, brings about an immense sense of accomplishment, pride and achievement. Being committed can be challenging, there are times when commitment comes with sacrifice and at a high risk with personal cost. It takes discipline, drive determination, perseverance and the motivation to be committed, particularly when standing alone in your commitment. Being committed takes inner strength, fortitude, insight, wisdom and emotional tenacity to stay uncompromisingly true to yourself.

Commitment can be confused with staying with something or someone too long.

For example, maintaining a job when there is little satisfaction or remaining in an unhappy relationship because you fear being alone.

There are times when our commitment is tested, when we have to let go, break or end our commitments in order to re-evaluate and redirect our goals. The issue of commitment is frequently discussed in therapy, especially when talking about relationships, job responsibilities, family life, roles and responsibilities. As a therapist I am eager to know what commitment means to the client(s) particularly when discussing relationship issues. Many thoughts about commitment have surfaced in therapy. Some of the thoughts are as follows; commitment means living up to expectations and can come with the pressure of not letting others down. When making a commitment be mindful to be realistic and not idealistic. Know when to quit. Be committed on purpose for a purpose. Assistance may be needed when making commitments, seek help through friends, spouses, colleagues, coaches, religious leaders, mentors and therapists.

Always commit to yourself; you must be committed to self in order to be committed to others. With commitment, whether it is to you or with others, there is a need for reliability, responsibility and accountability.

Commitment is seen in our actions, experienced in our relationships, processed in our minds, felt in our attitude and heard through our verbalizations. Commitment helps us to soar to heights of our potential, allowing us to defy odds and to experience growth.

Commitment tugs at our consciousness prompting us to have courageous conversations, leading to critical action, resulting in change. Being committed helps us to build bridges between communities, to raise our next generation, to eating healthier, to carrying out expectations, to actualize dreams, to make conscious decisions, to live out family traditions. Although, there are times when commitment can be crafted out of disappointment and dissatisfaction in reaction to discord and dissention, commitment grounds us and keeps us active, involved and engaged in life. Through acts of commitment, we are able to penetrate the souls and minds of others, as well as our own. The power of commitment is saying “I Do” and actually doing.

For more information about counseling services and outreach programming, contact Dr. Tatem at Wellness Initiatives, LLC 1900 North 18th Street, Suite 414, Monroe, La 71201, 318-4101555 or at btatem.bt@gmail.com.

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Alumni Spotlight ULM Alum: Lauren Creekmore

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FTER GRADUATING A YEAR EARLY FROM NEVILLE HIGH School in 2007, Lauren Creekmore knew she wanted to get into acting. She moved to California at 16 years old and graduated from the American Musical Dramatic Academy in performing arts in 2009. What was supposed to be a quick return to Monroe for the summer proved permanent when Lauren met her now husband, Bryan Creekmore. Having recently graduated from ULM in psychology, Bryan returned for his MA in teaching. Lauren also enrolled in ULM that fall to pursue a Mass Communications degree. At the time, Lauren’s mom, Elizabeth Guerriero taught business law at ULM, and her soon-to-be father-in-law, Dr. Walter “Skeet” Creekmore was the associate dean of the graduate school.

Lauren is an admitted perfectionist, and as a Mass Comm student, her endeavors were no different. Her professors proved invaluable. Dr. Patrick Hebert in communication served as a mentor during her last semester and helped Lauren work through her perfectionist tendencies.

He emphasized she needed to trust herself and the effort she was putting in. His assurance lessened the pressure Lauren puts on herself.

Dr. Bette Kauffman taught an advertising class and stressed articulating a message in few words, the importance of picture placement, and that less is more. Lauren uses that knowledge now when designing advertisements and billboards for her father’s law firm, Guerriero & Guerriero. Another class that left a lasting impression is Dr. John Rodriguez’s video production course. Lauren has used the knowledge gained from videography to make her acting audition tapes for film and television look professional. She now understands the importance of the technical aspects, clear audio and great lighting.

Dr. Christopher Mapp taught Lauren an APA/language course and introduced her to copy editing. Finding mistakes, “perfecting a piece” proved right in Lauren’s wheelhouse. She started as copy editor at The Hawkeye, ULM’s on-campus newspaper, and worked up to comanaging editor of news, a time-consuming endeavor that required late nights and strict deadlines. While at the paper, Lauren fell in love with photography and completed two internships: one with Terrance Armstard, the then ULM photographer, and another with Hunter Leone of Three Nails Photography. She shadowed wedding photographers before eventually feeling comfortable enough to venture out and start Lauren Creekmore Photography.

She finished ULM with a BA in Mass Communications with a concentration in digital media and a minor in sociology. She graduated 14 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0, the top student in her summer 2012 graduating class. The ceremony proved extra special for Lauren, as her mother and father-in-law both walked in their graduation robes representing the ULM faculty.

Lauren originally intended to do videography, but was drawn to wedding photography and the creative control it allows. Lauren said, “It’s an honor to be able to transport people back to a moment in time and what that moment felt like.” Significant moments happen at weddings, but it’s about more than taking pictures. Her clients become friends and frequently recommend her services to their friends. That, to Lauren, is a true testament to the work she does and the impact she has on people’s lives. After one wedding Lauren photographed, the bride contacted Lauren saying her grandfather had just passed away.

The pictures Lauren captured were the last photos they had of him and were used at his memorial. This made Lauren more sensitive to how important her role is. Having lost her father-in-law and four greatgrandparents in recent years, she knows what those photos mean, even the ones that aren’t perfectly posed. “You don’t realize how important a moment is until it’s lost. I want to help people relive them for as long as possible through my photography,” Lauren said.

Lauren and her husband, Bryan, were members of the pop/rock band, Villain for a Moment. He was the original bassist, and Lauren sang with the band after Bryan left to return to ULM in 2009. They co-wrote songs together that fateful summer when they fell for each other. The band showcased locally and toured to Los Angeles where they played at the world famous Whisky A Go Go. But now Lauren has settled into a different season of life with Bryan. She’s recently taken a step back from photographing weddings for motherhood. The couple has their 10 month-old daughter, Emorie, and Baby Camden is due in November. Currently, Lauren continues to focus on advertising for Guerriero & Guerriero and pursuing her Real Estate license.

The ULM Alumni Association reaches, connects and celebrates alumni and friends to build lifelong relationships, and commit to the university’s missions of academic freedom, scholarship, diversity, excellence, integrity and service. We represent alumni who honor the traditions of our university and who share a sense of achievement and pride. We create a network of professionals, establish scholarships and advocate for our University through community engagement. Members of the Alumni Association support countless initiatives, and annual memberships are just $35. To learn more or to become a member, please visit our new alumni network at ulm.edu/alumni.

Bayou Pages NIGHTSTANDS & COFFEE TABLES Wedding, Honeymoon and Beyond: How to succeed at marriage with just a little bit of trying REVIEWS BY MICHAEL DEVAULT

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s your big day approaches, you’re inundated with advice from family, friends and perfect strangers, all of whom seem to know the secret to the perfect wedding. Which pieces of advice should you take? How do you make sure you’re not getting off on the wrong foot?

If you’ve been to Target or Dillard’s to register, you already know weddings are big business. So it kind of makes sense that wedding advice books are big business, too. When you start searching for the tips to make your special day ideal, you get just as crushed by waves of information as you do from all those friends and family throwing tips your way.

BayouLife wants to help you cut through the clutter. We’ve selected three books that we think will help you plan your wedding, make your honeymoon exciting, and give you a leg up on making the most out of the first years of marriage.

The Knot Book of Wedding Lists: The Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Day, Down to the Smallest Detail

By Carley Roney

One of the most trusted names in tying the knot is theKnot.com, an authoritative wedding planning web resource for brides, who want to make the most out of their big day. With the assistance of author Carley Roney, now theKnot.com’s signature advice is available in an easy to follow guides.

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Built around theKnot.com’s signature lists, The Knot Book of Wedding Lists walks you through wedding contracts from edibles to entertainment to photography, flowers and decorations, and orders of service. There are even handy breakdowns of the duties of bridesmaids, so you can make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

Perfect for the “control freak” bride, The Knot Book of Wedding Lists will feed even the most Type-A, assertive brides. But because you’re organized and prepared, you can have your perfect day without having to transform into bridezilla to have it.

The Honeymoon Handbook

By Lonely Planet

You know you want your honeymoon to be perfect. It needs to be beautiful, intimate and entertaining. Beyond that, you don’t have a clue what you want.

Don’t fret, because the editors and writers at Lonely Planet have you covered.

The Honeymoon Handbook features comprehensive guides to making the most out of more than 20 of the hottest, hippest destinations on the planet. Want to live a month beachside in Cuba? They’ll tell you where to eat. Perhaps you hear the exotic call of Bali. Lonely Planet knows just where to stay for the perfect sunsets.

Drawing on more than twenty years of some of the best travel writing on the planet, The Honeymoon Handbook is the only guide you’ll need for creating the most memorable honeymoon experience

you can imagine. With more than 100 illustrations, you’ll find inspiration to help you decide where you’re going.

First Year of Marriage: The Newlywed’s Guide to Building a Strong Foundation and Adjusting to Married Life

By Marcus and Ashley Kusi

When Ashley and Marcus Kusi introduced readers to The First Year of Marriage, they quickly established themselves as go-to guides for navigating the complexities of those perilous first steps husbands and wives take in the early days of their marriage. Now they’re back with a revised and expanded second edition, and the advice has never been more timely.

The Kusis help newlyweds with everything from the principle – overcoming I to become We – to the practical – how to “fight fair” when disputes arise.

With a gentle compassion, Marcus and Ashley provide guidance, share personal anecdotes and help you arrive at marital bliss.

The secret they try to share: marriage doesn’t have to be hard. It doesn’t have to be a conflict. In fact, it’s simply a journey you’ve started together. First Year of Marriage should be required reading, the ideal how-to manual for newlyweds from all walks of life.

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Marsala Beverage

Marsala Beverage Welcomes Craft Vodka from Nashville, TN

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ARSALA BEVERAGE IS EXCITED TO INTRODUCE Pickers Vodka from Nashville, Tennessee. Pickers Vodka is Nashville’s first craft vodka that is distilled by Pennington Distilling Co.

“Our team is incredibly excited to have been chosen to distribute Pickers Vodka,” said Tyler Flemister, VP of Marketing for Marsala Beverage. “When we tasted each of the Pickers Vodka variations, we were blown away by the quality and drinkability.

Pennington Distilling Co. has created an exceptional product that is going to bring the Nashville lifestyle to Northeast Louisiana.

Pickers is crafted with great precision, and you can taste it. From the packaging to the vodka itself, it is extremely evident that Pennington Distillery Co. obsessed over every detail to deliver an exceptional brand to the market.” Flemister added.

Pickers Vodka is currently available in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida Panhandle, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee, Wyoming and Wisconsin and most recently adding Louisiana to their distribution footprint.

Launching in early May, Pickers Original is currently available in 750 mL and 1.75L bottles. Pickers Vodka is made with non-GMO Tennessee white corn and is gluten free. Pickers is Tennessee’s first craft vodka made in a state-of-the-art column still resulting in a product with a superior level of purity and smoothness. The column still used to produce Pickers Vodka is one of only four like it in the country - and the only in Tennessee. Distilled to perfection from non-GMO corn, it is then filtered four times, before it is blended with premium Tennessee limestone water. “Our goal for Pickers is to create a premium product worthy of being called Nashville’s vodka,” said Pennington Distilling Co. co-founder, Jeff Pennington.

“Pickers is a tribute to our hometown, Nashville, and everything it represents from the people, to the nightlife, to the musicians whose sounds fill the air.”

The column still installed by Pennington Distilling Co. to produce Pickers is one of only four like it in the country. Column stills used for vodka production contain a series of metal plates, each increasingly purifies the vodka as it is distilled. Pennington Distilling Co. still contains the equivalent of two to three times more

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plates than other stills used for vodka production. Furthermore, the temperature inside the still can be controlled within one-half of onedegree Fahrenheit, further improving the purity of Pickers Vodka.

“Our state-of-the-art column still allows us to remove impurities that can otherwise be difficult to refine,” said Jeff. “Creating a great vodka is about making a pure product and with Pickers, this truly shows.”

Other than Pickers Original Vodka, Marsala Beverage will also be adding the Pickers flavored vodkas to their portfolio throughout the summer timeframe. Those flavors include: Blueberry, Blood Orange and Pineapple.

Pennington Distilling Co. flavored its vodkas entirely with real fruit juice and extracts. The distillery was able to work with one of the only blood orange suppliers in the nation to get real, Californiagrown blood orange juice sourced for its vodka. “The first thing you’ll notice when you taste Pickers Blueberry and Blood Orange is that it is made using real fruit, which produces a light pulp and vibrant color in the vodka. The nose is bursting with fruit flavors,” said Pennington Distilling Co. co-founder, Jenny Pennington. “The same notes linger on the palate giving way to a well-balanced finish.

The real fruit Pickers flavors are great when mixed with simple ingredients, such as club soda, since the vodka itself is providing flavor and a hint of sweetness you would normally add using a flavored mixer.”

For any additional information on Pickers Vodka or some awesome drink recipes, please visit www.pickersvodka.com. Be on the lookout for this unique product!

Be sure to Stay connected with Marsala Beverage on Social Media: Facebook: Marsala Beverage Instagram: @marsalabeverage Twitter: @marsalabeverag1

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THE WEDDING ISSUE | BEAUTY Meka Bennett is BayouLife Magazine’s Beauty Expert and was the makeup artist for all brides featured on this page.

EYESHADOW PRIMER Eyeshadow base or primer is important to help set your eyeshadow for lasting beauty.

Meka recommends MAC Paint Pot Eye Primer.

Julian N Photography

Wedding Day Makeup Tips Christi Martin Photography FACE PRIMER Use a primer before applying foundation/base on the face. it will help your skin look smooth and it will not only work as a barrier between your moisturizer and foundation, but it will allow your makeup to last all day. Meka recommends Fleur De Vie Smooth Operater Face Primer.

WATERPROOF MASCARA Waterproof mascara is great to use with a pair of “natural” looking false lashes to increase a little drama on the eyes. Meka recommends Maybelline Great Lash mascara.

MEKA BENNETT GIVES US HER PROFESSIONAL TIPS FOR ACHIEVING MAKEUP THAT STAYS ON YOUR IMPORTANT DAY

TRANSLUCENT SETTING POWDER Set your makeup with either a translucent setting powder or spray to seal the deal. Meka recommends Danessa Myrick’s Evolution powder.

Micahla Vaughn Photography

HYDRATING SERUM Hydrate the skin. It’s a great way to prep any skin for makeup application, regardless of your skin being dry or oily. Meka recommends Revision Hydrating Serum.

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Three Nails Photography

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St. Francis Foundation Golf Classic On Wednesday, April 25, a reception and silent auction was held at the home of Dr. Rolf and Katie Morstead to celebrate the 7th Annual St. Francis Foundation Golf Classic. This event is presented by title sponsors What You Give Will Grow (WYGWG) Foundation, inspired by New Orleans Saints punter Thomas Morstead and his wife Lauren, and the Kitty DeGree Foundation. The following day a golf tournament was held at Bayou DeSiard Country Club with morning and afternoon flights. This year’s event was a huge success, raising over $100,000 for the St. Francis Foundation, whose mission is to care for those most in need throughout our community strengthening the health of families. In particular funds are directed toward services for women and children, through enhanced clinical excellence, advanced technology, increased access to care and support of their collaboration with St. Francis Pediatrics and Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital to improve the overall health of children throughout Louisiana.

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Aimee Kane and James Davison Chris and Dorobeth Windham Jonathan and Holley Perry Father James, Larry Stafford, Kristin Wolkart, Aimee Kane and Thomas Morstead 5M ayor Jamie Mayo, Aimee Kane, and Thomas and Maxwell Morstead 6 Steve and Jeanne Taylor and Cathy and Ronnie Myrick 7 Katie and Dr. Rolf Morstead 8 Ann Currie and Dr. Bob and Nell Seegers 9 Ann Currie, Caron McPherson and Caroline Cascio 10 Kyle and Erica Miller 11 Sydni Sanders and Linda Holyfield 12 C lay Shemwell, Dr. Mike Cage and Dr. Hardy Gordon 13 Cindy and Dennis Rogers, Tommy and Mary Ann Bordelon and Suzanne Ratz 14 Malcom and Johelen Maddox 15 D r. Walter Sartor, Roy Arthur, 15 14 Thomas Morstead, Raymond Winn and Charles Marsala 16 K en Breard, Matt Morgan and Murray Biedenharn 17 L arry and Pam Pickett and Debbie Luffey

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Summer Salvias Salvias Prove to be Workhorse in the Garden ARTICLE BY P. ALLEN SMITH photos by Mark Fonville

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often get asked by gardeners which plants are among my favorites. As a garden designer and lifelong plant connoisseur, that can sometimes feel like a trick question.

But if someone is looking for a plant that is hardy, longblooming and culinary to boot, then it’s tough to beat the versatile and beautiful salvia.

Salvias, often referred to as “sages,” can play many roles in the garden, from floriferous annuals and showy perennials to delicious herbs. And so versatile, they often can be used interchangeably -- culinary salvias are showy enough to be used in the flower garden, and perennial salvias bloom prolifically enough to be used in containers and window boxes.

Almost all salvias need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day to bloom successfully and require well-drained soil. As an added bonus, bees and hummingbirds find them irresistible, but deer and rabbits find the scented foliage unpleasant, so they pass them up.

Have I sold you on them yet? The following are some of my favorite salvias, along with a few ideas about how you might be able to incorporate them into your flower garden -- or your next salad, chicken dish or cocktail.

zones 8 to 10 and can reach anywhere from 2 to 5 feet tall, depending on the length of your growing season. Its flower spikes can be almost 12 inches long, making it easily accessible to and adored by hummingbirds. Excellent paired with reblooming daylilies, as well as fragrant oriental lilies.

Salvia leucantha, or Mexican bush sage, is a late summer bloomer with velvety gray foliage and soft lavender blooms. Hardy in zones 8 to 10, it can reach 2 to 3 feet tall and take on a shrubby appearance with enough time to mature. Pair with Chinese coral cannas or ornamental grasses for a flare in the fall.

Salvia microphylla ‘Hot Lips’ is a must for plant collectors or gardeners with a sense of humor. ‘Hot Lips’ claim to fame is its unusual bi-color flowers that have the appearance of a white salvia that has been kissed by someone wearing scarlet lipstick. It garners attention in the garden from bugs, hummingbirds and humans alike. It can reach up to 3 feet tall and is hardy in zones 8 to 10. Beautiful paired with the bold blooming peony flowering daylilies.

Salvia greggii ‘Wild Thing,’ or autumn sage, is a hot pink stunner that is hardy in zones 6 to 9. In addition to having a great name, ‘Wild Thing’ can reach up to 2 feet tall and has a shrubby, slightly woody appearance with blooms that delight hummingbirds.

Annual Salvias

Salvia x sylvestris ‘May Night’ is an award-winning perennial hardy in zones 4 to 9, reaching about 18 inches tall. It provides a stunning blue show in spring, then will repeat flower throughout the summer with notso-careful deadheading. Another feather in its cap is that ‘May Night’ can tolerate clay soils, a bonus in gardens like mine. These are the earliest to bloom and beautiful pair with ornamental onions (alliums) and coral colored peonies.

Salvia nemerosa ‘Sensation Rose’ creates a pink flower display with blooms reaching only 12 inches tall. Hardy in zones 4 to 8, ‘Sensation Rose’ is another repeat-bloomer that will debut fresh flowers every several weeks.

The pink flower spires make it a welcome addition to the salvia collection.

Salvia nemerosa ‘Marcus’ is a desirable blue salvia because of its

Salvia splendens, often called scarlet sage, is probably the salvia that most people are familiar with. They’ve been around forever and are often available at big box stores and hardware stores in six packs. Hardy in zones 8 to 10, this annual salvia is available in a variety of colors in addition to the old standby red, such as pink, lavender, orange and white. And like most salvias, it’s a profuse bloomer. Traditionally paired with other annuals, such as marigolds and zinnias, step out and combine them with grasses and daylilies.

Salvia guaranitica ‘Black and Blue’ -- an outstanding cobalt blue -- is a stunning addition to any flower garden. It’s hardy in 24 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Perennial Salvias

diminutive size at 8 to 10 inches tall. This makes it popular at the front of the flower bed, where its deep violet flowers can be appreciated throughout the season. Hardy in zones 4 to 8.

Salvia nemerosa ‘Blue Marvel’ features the largest flower blossoms of all of the nemerosas making it a desirable addition for the gardener who doesn’t have the time or patience for subtlety. Like ‘Marcus,’ ‘Blue Marvel’ also only reaches about 10 inches tall and is a vigorous bloomer even without deadheading. It is hardy in zones 4 to 9. Charming when combined with shorter reblooming daylilies, such as “Happy Returns’ or little ‘Stella d’ Oro.”

Culinary Salvias

Salvia officinalis ‘Icterina,’ or golden leaf sage, is as beautiful as it is delicious. It grows to 1 to 2 feet tall and wide with leaves that are about 2 inches long and variegated with pale green and golden yellow. Hardy in zones 6 to 10, ‘Icterina’ is drought-tolerant once established and can be used in cooking either dried or fresh. Sage is often used in chicken and fish dishes and can be added to make a savory herbal butter.

Salvia officinalis ‘Purpurascens’ is another popular culinary salvia that is also prized for its ornamental qualities.

‘Purpurascens’ foliage is a dusky purple and silvery green, as striking planted in the ground as it is in containers. Hardy in zones 6 to 9, purple sage grows 1 to 2 feet tall. Beautiful paired with purple basil and lavender.

Salvia officinalis ‘Tricolor’ outshines all the culinary sages for its showy leaves, which are purple and green outlined in a striking white margin. Hardy in zones 6 to 9, ‘Tricolor’ can reach 12 to 18 inches tall. It can be used in any dish that calls for sage flavoring.

Salvia elegans pineapple sage is a summertime favorite because of its brilliant scarlet flowers and fruity, pineapple-scented leaves. It’s a late summer bloomer, but I often find it in nurseries at the beginning of summer already in flower thanks to growers’ who start it early in the greenhouse. Hardy in zones 8 to 10, pineapple sage can reach up to 4 feet tall and is often blooming when hummingbirds start migrating south at the end of summer.

Its culinary uses are endless -- leaves and flowers can be used in salads or added to fruit cocktails. Leaves can also be used in recipes in place of mint, adding a unique twist to iced tea, cocktails and ice cream. Or simply rub a bruised leaf around the lip of a glass of ice water for flavor. Use it with abandon.

The moral of this story is that salvias are one of the garden’s most flexible, hardworking and easy plants. Whether used as an annual or perennial in the flower garden, as an herb in the kitchen garden or as a filler or centerpiece plant in your summer containers, salvias are worthy of a spot of honor. And for this plant lover, they check all the boxes -- beautiful, floriferous and in the herb garden, delicious.

photo by Steven Veach P. Allen Smith is an author, television host and conservationist with a passion for American style. His show “Garden Home” airs on LPB, KLTM, KLPA and AETN. Check your local listings for “Garden Style.” Smith uses his Arkansas home, Moss Mountain Farm, as an epicenter for promoting the local food movement, organic gardening and the preservation of heritage poultry breeds. He created his farm to serve as a place of inspiration, education and conservation and provides visitors from around the country with tours of his property, which may be booked at pallensmith.com/tours.

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Historical Impressions

“WILL I LOVE, HONOR AND CHERISH? AYE, AYE, SIR!”

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white wedding dress. Something old, something new. Lifting the veil. Stepping on a glass.

Throwing rice. Throwing the bouquet. A Groom’s cake. There are many traditions associated with weddings; some cultural, some religious, some current trends. Mostly these traditions are meant to ensure the wedding day is remembered as something special and sacred.

It probably comes as no surprise to know that a military wedding layers even more traditions - and even obligations - on top of the norms for civilian weddings.

Although there are many common military wedding traditions, traditions can vary by branch of service.

Only a man or woman who is serving or has served in any branch of the United States military can have a military wedding. With plenty of planning and advance reservations, a military chapel can be used. Alternatively, a military chaplain’s permission may be given for another ceremony location. If the chapel on base is chosen, there will probably be no charge for its use, but a donation to the chapel fund must be made. The bride cannot expect to decorate a military chapel in whatever way she wishes, however, or to have all music of her choice.

Rules for decorating military chapels can vary but typically all flowers, candelabra – and other décor – even for weddings – are arranged by the Chapel Altar Guild. Approval from the chaplain must be obtained to have flowers of the couple’s choice placed in the chapel and also to have their own special selection of music played during the ceremony. Music deemed “too secular” is likely to be denied.

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The chaplain also has to give permission for a photographer to be allowed in the chapel.

In some cases, taking pictures during the actual wedding will not be permitted.

If a marriage takes place in a military chapel, the chaplain will perform the ceremony. If a civilian clergy co-officiate is desired, permission must be sought, and the specific roles will be determined and approved. Since chaplains are commissioned officers and are paid by the service they represent, they are not paid a fee for the service. The previously mentioned donation to the chapel should be made, however, in place of a clergy fee for the chaplain.

Seating at the wedding is not a simple as family up front and bride’s side or groom’s side. A special place should be reserved for the commanding officer of the bride and/or groom. If the couple’s parents aren’t present, it’s customary to seat the commanding officer(s) and spouse(s) in the front pew. All high-ranking service members (senior officers or senior noncommissioned officers) must be seated in positions of honor at the ceremony. Behind these guests are the mid-grade officers or non-coms and the junior officers and enlisted are seated towards the rear of the chapel. Civilian guests do not have to be so regimented in where they are seated.

The bride or groom may select to wear a “Mess” dress or “Evening” dress uniform for white-tie or black-tie weddings. Class A (or Service Dress) uniforms are suited for semiformal events and equal a “suitand-tie” level of formality. If the bride is in the military, she has her choice of wearing either her military dress uniform or a traditional wedding gown.

A uniformed groom may never have a boutonniere. Nor may military groomsmen wear boutonnieres. Only authorized insignia and awards may be affixed to a uniform. A military bride may hold a bridal bouquet, however, even if in uniform.

If the groom is a commissioned officer, depending on his branch of service, he may decide to wear a saber or cutlass, which must be accompanied by white gloves.

(The Marine Corps is the exception and NCOs also authorized to carry swords.)

If a sword is worn, the bride stands to the groom’s right at the altar instead of to his left, as traditionally done in nonmilitary weddings. This placement allows the bride to avoid the blade.

Though specific commands and protocol may differ based on the military branch, the arch is a military wedding tradition highlight for commissioned officers. After the ceremony the newlyweds may progress under an arch of sabers (cutlasses) as is a symbolic act that ensures the newlywed couple safe passage into their new life together. Non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel use a variation known as the Arch of Rifles. A Marine Corps tradition, often adopted by the Air Force, is for the last saber bearers in the arch to lower their swords and block the happy couple’s journey and for one to “tap” the bride with his saber in a personal area and say, “Welcome to the Marine Corps (or Air Force), Ma’am.”

If the reception is of the formal variety, military members are seated by rank and title so captains sit by captains and sergeants sit by sergeants. As with the wedding ceremony, all high-ranking service members are seated in positions of honor. In the receiving line, protocol demands the uniformed groom precede his bride. Often, national colors and distinguishing flags are displayed, directly behind the center of the receiving line.

Military wedding tradition even extends to the cake. For a commissioned groom (and non-commissioned Marine), the groom hands his new bride his unsheathed sword saber, and with his hands over hers, they cut the first piece of cake together.

As can been seen from the above, military weddings have a bit more tradition, patriotism, and pomp and circumstance than civilian weddings. And as is always present in the military- even a wedding has rules and regulations that must be obeyed.

BY GUY MILLER Vice Chair-Chennault Aviation and Military Museum

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I REMEMBER greeting every opportunity with readiness and success a r t i cl e by PAUL L I PE

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becoming wide awake from my customary mid- where Communist influence is strong – and the Czech Republic had, afternoon drowsiness. What caused this sudden alertness was an e-mail in the recent past, been dominated by Russia. May 1, or “May Day,” is that popped up on my computer screen. It contained an invitation the chosen day when Secularist and Communist Parties promote the from missionary friends who were serving our denomination in Paris causes of the working classes. People flood the cities to take part in the – the e-mail asked if Linda and I would be available to “apartment-sit” festivities – and to engage all the hotel rooms. On that fateful Saturday while this couple attended a week-long missions retreat in Turkey. The night, there was “no room in the inn.” It was like New Orleans when the Crescent City is hosting the Super Bowl. prospect of a week of free lodging in what One had better book early! is perhaps the most beautiful city in the

I was ignorant of the significance world had a pretty strong appeal. I was of May Day and, therefore, had not excited beyond description and ready to planned ahead to secure lodging for begin packing my bags! My reply to this our intended stay in Prague. This was gracious offer was that I would have to so disappointing, because I had really check with my wife, but that they could wanted to show this incredible city to count on our being available. my sister and brother-in-law. Instead,

We had met this couple four years however, we got aboard a train that took earlier and had been sending nominal us away from Prague and into Germany financial support since that time. As – an anticipated blessing had to be a result, they thought of us when abandoned due to my mistake. I could their retreat was scheduled. Since our have made reservations in advance; I friends had a two-bedroom apartment, could have known of the significance we invited my sister, Millie, and her of May Day; I could have arranged husband, John, to accompany us on this rooms in Prague – but I did not do trip.

“HOW OFTEN DO INDIVIDUALS for it. And we paid a price – it cost us the

The four of us arrived in the City of MISS OUT ON BLESSING DUE TO opportunity of seeing this historic city.

Light on Tuesday, April 17, and, despite the cool, damp weather, enjoyed a week IGNORANCE OR INDIFFERENCE How often do individuals miss out on blessing due to ignorance or of sightseeing around Paris and a couple TO TRUTH?” indifference to truth? I think of those who of side trips to Bruges and Chartres.

Then we activated our Eurail Passes and embarked on a whirlwind tour refused to see the truth about Jesus when He came to deliver man from his bondage to sin. “He came to His own, but His own did not receive of European Reformation sites.

Everything was going well, and we all were enjoying the most Him.” (John 1:11) What a huge mistake and what an unbelievable loss!

I also think of King Saul (read his story in I Samuel 8-31), who amazing scenery and the opportunity to visit places where historic events took place that shaped our Western heritage. All of this had such promise as the first King of Israel. He had the opportunity changed on Saturday, April 28, when we reached Prague, one of the of leading his people to a place of prominence in his day, but because most fascinating cities in all of Europe. At each of our earlier stops, we he failed to rule according to the pattern God had set, he forfeited his had just debarked from the train, found the Information counter, and chance to establish himself as a great leader. This role was reserved for secured lodging for the night – not this time! There was only one room his successor, David, a “man after God’s Own heart,” who guided Israel available. This could not be – on an earlier trip that Linda and I had to the heights of political power in the ancient world.

May we all be spared those mistakes that would prevent us from taken, there were PLENTY of rooms in Prague just waiting for tourists realizing the full blessing that the Lord has in store for His children. to occupy them.

What made this day different? Well, April 28 was part of the Let us each show diligence, so that we are prepared to greet every weekend closest to May 1. That holds little significance for us here in the opportunity with readiness and success.

United States, but that is a BIG day in Europe, especially in those areas

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Tomato Basil Pie 3 Medium tomatoes, peeled, sliced and seeds removed 1 9” Pie shell, baked 5 Slices bacon, cooked crisp 1/2 c Green onions, chopped 10 Fresh basil leaves, chopped 1 c grated Mozzarella 1 c grated Cheddar cheese 1/2 c Sour cream 1/2 c Mayonnaise Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350º. Place prepared tomatoes on a paper towel and blot excess juces. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Stir together mayonnaise, sour cream and cheeses.

Spread a small amount in bottom of pie shell. Layer tomatoes in pie shell. Add crumbled bacon, green onions and basil.

Spread cheese mixture over top. Bake about 30 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly browned. recipe by Evelyn O’Neal and photo by Kelly Moore Clark

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B AY O U A R T I S T

L E A H

R E I T Z E L L

TO HER STUDENTS, PEERS AND FAMILY, LEAH REITZELL IS A POWERHOUSE OF ENERGY FOR GOOD. SHE’S A FULL-TIME TEACHER, MOTHER OF THREE AND WORKING ARTIST. HER LOVE, JOY AND TALENTS EXTEND FAR BEYOND THE BOUNDARIES OF A CANVAS OR THE WALLS OF A CLASSROOM. LEAH IS THIS MONTH’S BAYOU ARTIST. ARTICLE BY APRIL CLARK HONAKER AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK

LEAH SMITH REITZELL IS A FORCE, a whirlwind, a powerhouse of energy for good. Not only is she a working artist, but she’s also a wife, mom and teacher. “I’m always moving,” she said. “I don’t think. I just do.” On weekdays, she imparts her skills and positivity to students at Sterlington High School, and on the weekends, she gives private art lessons and does live wedding paintings. Along the way, she also makes time for family and time for her own painting. “I’m one of those who tries to juggle everything, and if something falls, I try to catch it,” she said.

Over the years, Leah’s success and the success of her students have become testaments to her juggling abilities. Since her first exhibition in 2011 during a Downtown Art Crawl, Leah and her art have become beloved by the community. In fact, she’s been a finalist in a local reader’s choice competition in the artist category for the last six years. As a natural leader, she’s also one of the oldest members of the Downtown Arts Alliance, has served a term as vice president for the Louisiana Art Education Association, and started a National Art Honor Society chapter at Sterlington High School.

In addition, Leah recently pioneered an Adobe certification program at Sterlington, making it one of the first schools in the region to offer the program.

Students who graduate Adobe certified will leave high school already equipped for jobs in graphic arts, and if they choose postsecondary education, they’ll be ahead of their peers in terms of skills.

Although Leah is primarily a painter, she dabbled in graphic design in college and said, “I colored too much outside the lines for it. It just wasn’t my bag.”

But she’s continued to develop her skills in this area for the sake of her students. Getting them certified

and job ready is important to her. At the same time, she continues to encourage them to color outside the lines and has watched her students win major awards, such as the George Rodrigue Scholarship Art Contest.

Not only are Leah and her students doing great work, but they’re also giving back to the community. In fact, since Leah joined the faculty at Sterlington, her students have completed over 20 community-based art projects. One of their biggest projects has been a Louisiana-themed mural series inside Marion State Bank. “I really believe in being very involved in the community and teaching the kids to give back to the community,” she said, “to make the community a better place through art.”

Fortunately, the administration at Sterlington has been supportive of Leah’s ideas, and she’s never felt confined or limited. “I’m really happy where I am.

It’s a blessed, wonderful situation,” she said, “with wonderful kids and a wonderful school.” Leah believes if you’ve been blessed, you should pass those blessings along to others.

She’s especially thankful to have had teachers and mentors who did the same for her along the way. Leah graduated from Neville High School, where she was continually inspired by her art teachers Brenda Rowan, Linda Ward and Patricia Turner. Even then, she knew that she wanted be a teacher and work with other teachers. Their passion and enthusiasm was infectious. Now as she watches some of her own students choose art education as a career, Leah feels she’s come full circle. She became the legacy of her own art teachers, and now she has an opportunity to create a similar legacy. But before Leah was called to teach and inspire others to teach, she was first an artist.

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“At three, I was drawing on all the backs of my mom’s shopping receipts and sometimes on the backs of cabinets,” she said. Later, in school, she tended to get in trouble for drawing during class. In fact, one teacher even attempted to end her career as an artist, before it launched. “She told me I wouldn’t get anywhere drawing,” Leah said. “She told me I needed algebra, and I don’t use that, but I draw every day of my life.” Fortunately, Leah was persistent, and her mom and dad were supportive, which led Leah to continue pursuing art through high school and college, where she was inspired by professors Robert Berguson and Edwin Pinkston. Leah earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Louisiana Tech University in 2003 and then went on to earn a Master of Education in art education for grades K-12.

After working a short time as a child advocate for the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART) in Ruston, Leah scored an interview at Sterlington High School. She was a young 24 at the time, and the principal wasn’t sure she could handle the students, but Leah assured him she was ready. She’s been teaching there ever since.

“I have a really unique opportunity to put in practice what my passion is,” she said. “Art is around me every day of my life, and I like being a working artist, as well as a teacher.” Painting every day helps her relate to her students better and helps them solve artistic problems. “I feel like I’ve got a lot more to give them,” she said. Leah not only nurtures their artistic skills but also their spirits. “I try to tell them something that will bring them joy every day,” she said. One of the greatest lessons she’s learned as an artist and a person is to never give up on your dreams and to embrace your unique spirit, because people will be drawn to it.

She tries to share this lesson with her students and to build them up with positivity.

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n fact, positivity is one of the cornerstones of Leah’s life. But she admits that it would be difficult to stay positive and balance so many responsibilities if it weren’t for a phenomenal support system and incredible kids who’ve fit seamlessly into her family’s art-filled lifestyle. “Where I am is a pretty wonderful place to be,” she said, “but I don’t think I would be where I am without my parents, Mack and Evette Smith and Peggy and Steve Reitzel.” According to Leah, grandparents on both sides have provided the love and support necessary to keep things going. “Most of the time, the kids are with me, but some quality time with grandparents lets me pour a little into myself,” she said. Leah’s husband Mac is also a huge supporter and helps Leah hang all of her shows. “I feel really lucky,” she said. “I couldn’t have the career I have, the life I have and be as busy as I am without their support.

Because Leah’s kids spend a lot of time with her, they’re inevitably growing up surrounded by art. “My oldest [Noah] is very inspired by seeing me work,” she said. In fact, he participated in his first exhibition alongside his mom at a Downtown Gallery Crawl a few months ago. “That was the best thing ever,” she said. But all three of Leah’s boys embrace opportunities to be creative. They all paint and draw, and the youngest is especially fluid in Play-Doh. “It’s fun to see that evolve,” she said.

With three boys and such a busy life, it’s a wonder that Leah finds the time or energy to be creative, but being surrounded by creativity on a daily basis is inspiring in itself. Leah also knows how to create an environment at home that gets the creative juices flowing. After the kids go to bed, she turns on some music, and it’s like a switch flips. “That instantly immerses me into a creative vibe,” she said. Leah listens to everything from classic rock to soul to 1940’s favorites, such as Benny Goodman, Frank Sinatra and Etta James.

Leah loves to perpetuate a sense of joy and freedom in her work. “My work is light and lyrical,” she said, “and there seems to be a real appetite for that now.” As a result, she has made it her life’s mission to bring that kind of work to people. “I think I have a distinctive style. I think it’s my own, and I’ve learned to embrace it,” she said. But like most artists, developing her unique style took time and practice. “I had to find my way,” she said. “I had to find my style. I had to find what would sell.”

The outcome of that journey has been a body of work full of thick textures and bold energy that reflects her personality. The work dances across the canvas, inviting viewers to interact and engage. While having viewers tangibly engage might bother some artists, Leah welcomes it. “I love when kids ask if they can touch it,” she said. Allowing viewers, especially kids, the opportunity to touch her work gives them another avenue of connecting with it—a way of making it their own. At the same time, it requires Leah to let the work go. According to Leah, exhibiting your work in public is almost like walking around naked. It’s exposing and challenging, and you never know how someone will react. “But I love it,” she said. “I love people. I love their nuances. I love their beauty, and I love connecting people to the artistic part of themselves they didn’t know they had.”

Every time she paints, the process provides a platform for expressing who she is and also a means of connecting with others. “I can just be myself,” she said, “and that feels really good. I like to be original, and it’s cool when people can tell a work is yours.” Over time, the constant, daily practice has made Leah a better, more productive painter. “It’s like breathing now,” she said, “and I feel like the sky’s the limit. I just want to keep expressing as long as God gives me.”

Much of Leah’s work has Louisiana themes, but many of her commissioned pieces depict people. She has done a lot of family scapes, which she describes as customized, fine art renderings of a client’s family in an abstract sense. “I love the concept of family and the family unit,” she said, “so creating these family scapes is a really amazing part of what I do.” Sometimes she even has the opportunity to watch her clients’ families evolve and to adapt their paintings to reflect their growing families. “I love portraying the seasons of life and events of life,” she said. “I love portraying that movement and rhythm, and I hope I can capture a bit of their souls—where they were in that moment. It’s an honor to be able to do that for someone.”

Although Leah has been creating family scapes for years, she recently dove into a whole new but related endeavor: live wedding painting. When she

was first approached with the idea, she thought it would be a fun challenge and jumped at the opportunity. Because she’s fluent in the figure and works quickly and furiously, her style of painting is perfectly suited for capturing the movement and flow of a wedding, reception or other event. Not only does she provide some unique entertainment for guests, but also she gives the couple a keepsake they can appreciate for the rest of their lives. Her hope is that the painting will take them right back to that moment and the joy they felt in that day. When she thinks of weddings, Leah thinks of the intertwining of souls, the love, and the merging of families and traditions. Those ideas are present in every stroke of her brush.

“I’m a hopeless romantic,” she said. “I married on the beach with my toes in the sand, and I come from a long line of hopeless romantics.” Given that romance comes so naturally to her, she’s right at home telling couples’ love stories on canvas. “I love ‘love’ and the idealism of it,” she said, “and I think we need every bit of it to make the world go around. If I can capture a couple’s love story on canvas, then I feel like I’m truly sharing my gift.”

Leah is undoubtedly a woman with many gifts to share. Her love and joy and talents extend far beyond the boundaries of a canvas or the walls of a classroom. “I put everything I have into what I do,” she said. “I love what I do, and I practice what I preach, whether it’s on the canvas or in the classroom.”

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Off the Wall Fundraiser

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The 9th Annual Off the Wall fundraiser for the Masur Museum of Art was held on April 19 after rescheduling for weather. Off the Wall is the area’s premier art auction featuring an excellent selection of affordable art by artists in the community. Guests were entertained by Julie Crews who was painting at the event, live music and delicious food provided

by Thurman’s Food Factory. Proceeds from the event support exhibitions and educational programs for the museum. The largest visual arts museum in northeast Louisiana, the Masur is vital to providing arts to the community.

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1 T om Collins and Gregory Hudgins 2K elsea McCrary, Srdjan Marjanovic, Pamela Saulsberry and Austin Bantel 3 Sara Barham and Lillian Paxton 4 Melanie, Arielle and Jeff Douthit 5 J oshua Mitchell and April Salsberry 6 Stephanie Jordan 7 J ulie Crews 8 Lindsey Swander, Emily Cassis and Kelsey Laudenheimer 9M atthew and Scarlett Garcia 10 Tim and Robin Hitt 11 Hardy Gordon, Mary Kathryn and David Crigler and Jeffrey Laudenheimer 12 Quilwanti Lewis and Evie Stewart 13 Ana Lopez, Drew Farr and Wendy Newsom 14 Janet Haedicke, Jordan Haedicke and Steve Haedicke 15 E mily Caldwell and Ann Bloxom Smith 16 Gayle and Barry Stevens 17 Regina Wood, Chip and Lila Strode 18 Lacey Stinson and Melanie Douthit 19 Thurman Dickey and Clay McLaughlin 20 Leigh Liles and Courtney Wetzell

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article by Kenny Covington

FISHING

With Kenny

The Thirst for Knowledge

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won my first bass tournament, when I was sixteen years old. It was 1983, and I was fishing out of an aluminum boat equipped with only a foot controlled 12-volt trolling motor. My father put an old spare tire in the very back section of my boat to keep the wind from pushing the back end around. I had four rods and reels, one large tackle box and I was out to conquer the fishing world called Cheniere Lake that day.

I didn’t have a big fancy boat. My tackle was pretty basic. My rod and reels were my dad’s hand-me-downs, but none of that mattered. I was competing and was cautiously confident, because I had been catching bass, and a lot of them, for almost a month. I was nervous, because I kept asking myself, “Could I catch them one more time?”

I knew the trees to throw by and the ones to bypass. I knew where to get a bite and when to slow down and simply fish. I had them figured out in a way that I could basically “call my shot.” It’s bass fishing at its finest. My time on the water had prepared me for that particular day, and I easily won the tournament.

This was the start of a fishing research process that continues to grow to this day. Even at an early age I had a thirst for knowledge and a strong desire to learn to better catch fish that still exists. I have always believed that regardless of the activity, you get out of it what you put into it. Golf, chess, baseball, volleyball or even bass fishing, if you want to be good at it, you have to put in the time. I believed it then, just as I do now.

Besides time on the water, there are many ways a person can become a better fisherman. Many things can be learned before you ever launch your boat. Research off of the water often leads

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to success on it. YouTube, the Internet, articles and tournament results; the amount of resources available is staggering but can be overwhelming. Here are a few ideas that I believe can help you become better at this great sport.

During a tournament, if I find myself sharing an area with another competitor, I take into consideration what technique or lure they may be using. Paying attention to this simple detail allows me to throw something the fish aren’t seeing, possibly showing me a way to catch a few extra fish. For example, if I see they are throwing a topwater of some sort, I know they are covering the top of the water column. Maybe I can come behind them with a spinnerbait or a shallow crankbait and catch fish they may have fished over the top of. The way an area is being fished can make all the difference in the world.

I have kept tournament records for almost thirty years. Lures, weather conditions, time of year, water temperature, types of cover, as much information as I can write down is valuable, especially several years later. Even tournament results from other bodies of water can give you some ideas on things to try on our area lakes.

Maybe it is a lure, maybe a section of the lake or maybe some form of cover, such as cypress trees or boat docks. All these things are good clues to successful days on the water. I have always believed that as long as the information is good, you can never have too much of it.

I constantly research new and different techniques and try to think of how I can incorporate them into my way of doing things.

I can remember first reading about the drop shot technique. While I did believe it would be a fish catcher, I also knew it was too slow for my way of fishing. When I researched the effectiveness of wake baits, such as a Buzz Jet, I immediately saw the potential and now I use those lures quite often, because I don’t have to slow down to fish them.

I watch fishing videos from all over the world, especially from Japan. The Japanese fisheries have more pressure than our lakes and fishermen could ever imagine. If they develop something, a lure or a technique that works in their country, I take a close look at it. They are the very best, when it comes to tweaking old ideas or introducing new ones to the bass fishing world.

Probably one of my favorite things to do is to work on my own tackle. I like to replace hooks, try new rod/reel combinations for particular baits or maybe try a different style of hook for a particular soft plastic. I can sit in my boat for hours and build my own jigs, spinnerbaits or buzzbaits. I like to contact other fishermen I know and pick their brains about the particular ways they do things.

I’m always learning, and I feel that is the most important thing in becoming a better fisherman.

By now, you may be thinking all of this is overkill, and to the casual observer I can see where it would be. I have seen hunters go to the ends of the earth to find where the biggest deer are bedded up or to find the hidden sweet spot for ducks. Or what about the golfer trying to knock a few strokes off of his game before his club championship? If you are passionate about it, there is no such thing as being over prepared.

Well, it looks like we have run out of space again for another month. I do hope we have been able to give you some good information that will help you on your next trip to the water. Please be careful out there, and catch one for me! See you next month!

BA Y OU OUT D OORS

article by DAN CHASON

Ode to Dads

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hen I hosted our television series “Dan Chason Outdoors,” every show started the same. The black screen read: “This show is dedicated to my Dad, Rev. R.L. Chason, who always had the time to take me fishing.” That was our life. My Dad even used fishing to get us out of the bed on a school day. He would wake us up one of two ways: With a metal pot and spoon singing “Bringing in the Sheeves” at the top of his lungs, or by simply slipping into my brother’s and my room and whisper, “Wanna go fishing?” By the time we had shook the sleep from our eyes and hit the floor, it was too late to return to bed after we realized it was a school day. Dad was a big practical joker. He was also a lover of soft served ice cream. One joke he pulled was to buy two cartons of ice cream, eat one that was supposed to be Mom’s and then refill it with skim milk and serve it to her. He thought it was a classic joke to watch her face when she tasted it.

Dad was a very unique man and I miss him dearly. The thing I miss the most is our one-on-one fishing trips. I was the trolling motor, and he was the guide. Dad didn’t bass fish, but he could surely burn you out catching panfish of any kind or catfish. His favorite saying is one I want reserved for my headstone. Every trip we took would end the same.

Dad would say, “Just let me catch ONE more, and we’ll go home.” That is the reason my Mom would not fish with him.

I was a busy Dad. I worked a full time job, and then in 1992 when my son was eight and my daughter was six, I started the television show. This added another full time gig onto my plate which meant not attending a lot of ball games, kid activities or anything else that didn’t revolve around the outdoors. I did take my son, Andy, with me, where he learned to run a video camera and eventually produce our show.

This turned into a career, as he now owns Plugged In Creative Group, as well as working a full time job with Vantage Health Plan. Guess the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. What I learned in my later years is that the only thing I loved more than being a Dad was when I became a Grandpa.

My wife and I have five children and eight grandchildren. The grandkids on her side call me Papaw, and the ones on my side call me 40 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Pop (which is what I called my Grandpa). I didn’t have a lot of patience when I was young, so fishing with 4-year-olds is not a job I looked forward to doing. That all changed as these grandkids soon learned that Pop/Papaw had a knack for catching fish. Rarely does a week go by that one of them is not calling wanting to go fishing. It is the highlight of my week.

Such was the case during the last two weeks when Andy showed up with Cooper. Cooper is Andy’s son and has the fishing gene for sure.

This kid, Andy and I caught 57 bream (that we kept) in one hour. I will never forget the first fish he caught with a cast he made and landed alone. You would have thought he had hit a home run. The first thing he wanted to do was send a photo to his Mama, then call his cousin, Mason ,and tell him he was catching more fish with Pop than Mason did the week before. I guess the fishing gene and competitive gene run close.

The week prior to Andy coming, my daughter, Danielle, came over with four-year-old Mason. Mason has it bad, as well, as he not only has the Chason fishing gene, his dad, Casey, is an accomplished and die-hard fisherman. You can’t drive down the road with him that he isn’t pointing out deer stands, critters of every kind and asking every question that rolls through his head about both.

But the one thing I learned on both of these trips is that life has come full circle. I watched both of my children in their parental roles with a loving, patient and kind assistance they lent to both of their children. I saw the love in the eyes of these kids as they told my kids “I love you, Mommy” or “I love you, Daddy.” Things that were music to my ears when my kids were little and are still music to hear today. Both of my kids knew they were loved. Both of them knew that their Daddy was there for them in any situation. And on these two trips, I learned the most valuable lesson I could have learned. If you take the time to share the outdoors with your kids, they will most likely share it with their kids and kids to come. This is not only a gift of a family-oriented activity, it is a realization that God has a special place for your family as well, in the great outdoors. I love you both dearly, Andy and Danielle.

This article is dedicated to two great kids (and grandkids) who took the time to take this old man fishing.

WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JUNE 2018 41

2High Trampoline Park Ruston’s Newest Attraction Now Open

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HETHER IT’S A BIRTHDAY party, an afternoon pickup game of Ultimate Dodgeball, a charity event or just a day out with the family, 2High Trampoline Park is a place to gather with friends, family and your community. We provide ways for people to play together, as well as spaces for parents and non-jumpers to enjoy themselves while keeping an eye on the action.

SUMMER IS IN SESSION As you all are winding down from another school year, we are thankful that we got to be involved in a small portion of the year. Special thanks to those schools who chose to bring their students to us for their end of the year field trips! Our dodgeball courts and ninja course were a BIG hit with all the field trips. These kids made the game of dodgeball competitive and enjoyable for everyone. From flipping to avoid getting hit by the ball, to distracting their opponents in various ways, girls against boys, you name it, and they tried it. Every student that came through had the best time and so did our staff. We have had many group events at this point and look forward to many more in the years to come.

We also got involved with some schools by awarding students with awards certificates for making good grades or having good behavior throughout the school year. We did a jump time discount, and the schools presented them at their awards day.

We wanted students to be aware that good behavior/good grades will not go unnoticed.

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A special thank you to the schools that participated.

2High Trampoline Park is in full swing.

We are gearing up for this exciting summer ahead. We can’t wait for you to hear about all the new things that we have going on around here.

SUMMER PASSES Whether it’s a family day here at the park or you are wanting your babysitter to bring the kids by for an afternoon of fun, our summer passes are the way to go. The family summer pass is a $200.00 pass for 20 one-hour jump times. It started May 1st and is redeemable through August 31st. You can add up to six family members to your pass and yes parents’ babysitters are considered family. We are excited to offer this as a way to encourage those families that are planning to visit throughout the summer regularly to save some money in the long run. Come check us out and see for yourself that our park really is fun for all ages.

2High Trampoline isn’t just great for birthday parties, it’s perfect for all groups: • Parties • Church Groups • Lock-Ins • Retreats • Office Party • School Field Trips Our summer hours will be changing soon, and we want everyone to know!

As of June 5th, our hours will be: Monday- Closed

Tuesday - 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Wednesday - 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Thursday - 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday - 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Saturday - 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday - 1 p.m. - 8 p.m.

We are working on other various summer programs and can’t wait to see you all this summer. Remember it may be HOT outside, but it’s not at our park! The dog days of summer are right around the corner, and we look forward to helping you stay cool and active.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and our Website to stay up to date on all of our exciting, upcoming events such as: • Glow in the Dark Nights • Neon Jump • Black Light Nights • Date Night (Parents can drop off kids) • Dodge Ball Tournaments (coming soon) • Family Flight Nights • Summer/Family Passes - Summer fun for kids, and the babysitter can bring them!

Want to save time? Visit our website and fill out your online waiver, before you get to the park. Our website will walk you through the simple steps to fill it out!

1460 Frazier Road Ruston, LA 318-224-7052 www.2hightrampolinepark.com

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Uptown Downtown

Morgan Garrison Offers Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cake

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HE DETAILS ARE ALL STARTING to make sense. You have set a date, chosen a venue, hired a photographer, met with your florist and now comes the time to hire the baker who will make the most important cake in your life. This process can be simple and painless, if you keep a few tips in mind.

Research is Essential.

Know the bakers in your area. Start researching their work and reviews on the Internet. Look them up on Facebook and Instagram. Testimonials from their previous brides are your go-to answers to whether or not this baker is going to be the right fit for you and your fiancé.

Make an Appointment.

The most effective way to know that you are comfortable with your baker is to set up a consultation to talk face-to-face with him or her. This will let you get to know just what style he or she has and what services his or her bakery offers. Don’t just settle for the first person you meet. Meet with a couple of different people to be sure you are getting the cake you have always dreamed of.

What’s Your Style?

Your cake should be compatible with not only your personal style, but the style of your venue, the season, your wedding gown, the flower arrangements, décor and the menu. I always advise my brides to have examples of cake styles that are their favorites, so I can get an idea of the bride is going for. If you like ten different cakes, save their pictures, keep them with you, and present them at

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your consultation. Your baker will then help you navigate through which designs are best suited for your special day.

How to Know How Much Cake to Order.

Always have an approximate number of guests being invited to your wedding before meeting with your baker. This will tell him or her just how large your cake will need to be. If you are wanting a large cake, but only have 50-100 guests, ask your baker if they offer faux cake tiers. This will give you the height for creating a show stopping cake, but you will not be stuck with loads of cake at the end of your reception.

The Fun Part, TASTING!

Always, always, always, ask your baker to provide samples of flavors available. These days, most wedding cakes aren’t just classic white cake with buttercream icing. Most bakers will allow you to have multiple flavors throughout the tiers of the cake, and it doesn’t stop there. You can also add in tasty fillings that complement your choices of cake flavors.

The Cake for the Man of Your Dreams.

If you are from the South, you know it is a southern tradition for the groom to have his own cake at the reception. Now for years, the groom’s cake was always a two or three tiered square chocolate cake with chocolate dipped strawberries and gobs of chocolate buttercream. Now ladies, let’s remember that there are not many details of the wedding that cater to your special guy, so why not make his cake ordinary. Take the groom’s cake to the next level. Have this cake be a special a representation of this man. Think about his

hobbies, interests, favorite sports teams or his favorite dessert. Let that be the answer to the design for his cake. Is your groom not a cake eater, then have your baker make his favorite dessert as a “groom’s dessert” instead of “groom’s cake.” Whether it’s his grannies favorite pineapple upside down cake, Aunt Fannie’s carrot cake, or just plain ole OREOs, give the man what he likes. It’s his day, too!

Let Them Eat Cake

You have walked down the aisle, said “I do,” and have had your first dance. Now is the time to cut the cake. One of the most common mistakes at a wedding is waiting too long to cut the cake. People are ready to dive in, so why wait? This will leave you with less cake left over and leave your guests with smiles on their faces.

The Frozen Anniversary.

Tradition says that the couple is supposed to celebrate their one-year anniversary by indulging in the top tier of their wedding cake, saved for the special day. If packaging and planning are done correctly, this can be very fun and not nearly as dreaded as it seems.

Alert your caterer ahead of time to make them aware that you are saving your top tier. They can package it in a box for you to take home and store in your freezer for365 days. Just remember to wrap the box with plastic wrap and foil, and it will seem freshly baked on your one year anniversary.

Uptown Downtown – Cakery, Bakery & Eatery (formerly Kacee’s Sugar and Spice) is located in Ruston, Louisiana. Give them a call at 318.255.6771.

Bon Temps Classical Pilates Pilates for Men

BY MARCIA DONALD, OWNER AND FOUNDER

“What gives LeBron James, Tiger Woods and Jake Arrieta the edge in their professional sports?” They all do Pilates!

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EN OFTEN ASK, “IS PILATES good for men?” My first response is always – “Pilates was created and designed by a man for men!” Pilates has been utilized by elite male and female athletes for over 50 years. Although women tend to gravitate to mat classes, Pilates holds plenty of benefits for men who want more strength and flexibility. Whether you are a power lifter or prepping for a marathon, Pilates can help fine tune your performance.

Pilates exercises are made up of subtle, concentrated movements that can help you do the following: • D evelop neglected muscles that don’t typically get a lot of attention. Pilates will help you consciously move in certain ways to build muscles that you don’t target while lifting weights.

• P ilates will focus on stretching which will help prevent injuries and muscle strain and will increase your range of motion.

Pilates actually stretches and strengthens muscles simultaneously which helps to prevent injuries and muscle strains and will increase your range of motion.

• B uilding core strength is the primary focus throughout your Pilates training. Every exercise in Pilates focuses on using your core to power movement in your extremities. Pilates teachers ensure that you are working the core by 46 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

teaching you to activate the transversus abdominus and pelvic floor muscles that make up your core.

• Breathing is a big part of your Pilates workout. By coupling breath with each exercise, you work the diaphragm, stabilize the spine and generate more power for everything you do.

• Biomechanical alignment during every exercise is of utmost importance to prevent injuries, avoid re-injury, and to retrain faulty movement patterns and asymmetries.

Core strength, flexibility, balance, balanced muscle development and recruitment, and efficient movement patterns are all hallmarks of Pilates training. All of these components are highly important for men’s fitness. The integrative component of Pilates can be especially beneficial for men whose workouts often emphasize a part by part approach to muscular development such as occurs in weightlifting. There is none of the “just power through” kind of attitude in a typical men’s gym workout that often leads to injuries. When working with the Pilates equipment under the watchful teacher’s eye will help keep your body aligned.

Although Pilates is resistance equipment, it is not intended to be overpowered. In fact, sometimes the lightest setting on a piece of equipment such as a Reformer is the most challenging for the core muscles. In Pilates, which Joseph Pilates originally called

“Contrology,” controlled movement is the key to a deeper level of fitness.

Pilates is a conditioning regimen that improves functional movement.

Joseph Pilates wanted his clients to gain the strength, balance and flexibility, that would allow them to move easily through daily life activities. There is nothing specifically different about Pilates training for men. The Pilates method is the same for all. Pilates is founded on healthy movement principles for the human body. After a Pilates session, you will feel refreshed and relaxed. Men might find that their muscles are less flexible in the beginning of their Plates sessions, but exercises can be easily modified to allow those areas to stretch out gradually.

Interestingly, Pilates does not hold uncomfortable stretches at end range for long periods of time. Men can move into and out of movements rhythmically using breath and control to stretch muscles with ease. This flexibility concept is similar to PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) techniques used by professional athletes to improve flexibility and prevent injury. Muscles develop strength at the end range of motion, which is where most injuries occur. The best way to learn about the benefits of Pilates is by taking a class with us at Bon Temps Pilates!

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“

THE TENT DRAPING. IT WASN’T THE BIGGEST SPLURGE, BUT IT WAS THE ONE THAT NO ONE UNDERSTOOD WHY I WANTED IT SO BADLY UNTIL THEY SAW IT... AND IT WAS WORTH EVERY PENNY!” – Marisol O’Neal

Having a traditional Indian wedding in Monroe! From the gold Mandap to the horse my husband rode in on, almost every vendor was from out of state, but it was amazing!”

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST

Wedding Splurge?

WE ASKED OUR BAYOULIFE READERS WHAT THEIR BIGGEST WEDDING SPLURGES WERE AND HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITES.

– Sarah Cox

“My videographer! We had everything already planned and accounted for. Then two weeks before the wedding, I decided to splurge and asked if by chance our wedding date was available. Needless to say, we have an awesome treasure! One of the best decisions I made throughout the wedding planning.”

– Kelly Hosea

– Simran Emaus

“Food! Hot tamales... Real ones at that. My wedding was beautiful, but I wanted good food and authentic Mexican food since I’m half Hispanic” – Kristin Sims

“The biggest splurge at my daughter’s wedding was the live painting at the Jazz brunch reception” – Stacy Guice

“The photo booth!

Everybody had so much fun with it, and we have such great pictures of our friends just being silly and having fun at our wedding.

Definitely worth the splurge!”

– Holly McCready

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“The most expensive thing at my wedding was the shrimp tower! People still talk about how good they were!”

“OUR 6L OF CHAMPAGNE FOR TOASTING!WHATA PARTY!” – Wallace McKeel

“

MY DAUGHTER WANTED THE BEACH! ALL HER LIFE SHE WANTED TO BE BAREFOOT IN THE SAND... SHE GOT HER WISH!” – Terri Arthur

Celebration 2018

Cedar Creek Hosts “Game Day” for Annual Spring Fundraiser

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AME DAY” WAS THE THEME FOR Celebration 2018, Cedar Creek School’s annual spring fundraiser. Attendees were greeted by event co-chairs Jennifer and Roman Farrar, Erin and Frank Johnson, and Sandy and Lomax Napper, as they entered the Ruston Civic Center on April 13. The game day-inspired decor was cheerful and relaxed; of course, the attire was casual! The sold-out crowd enjoyed live music provided by the Mike’s Light and Sounds throughout the evening.

Cedar Creek parents, grandparents, faculty, alumni and friends enjoyed beverages from the Time Out Tavern while they visited the Super Bowl Cook-Off to sample appetizers prepared by our Celebration cookoff teams. The delicacies included everything from mini muffulettas to pulled pork sliders.

The competition was fierce. Congratulations to The Tailgate on The Hill cook-off team for bringing home the title of Top Game Day Chef with its amazing spicy chicken nachos.

Patrons perused the silent auction that offered an array of packages, including everything from spa days to cowboy boots along with romantic getaways and original art from area artists. Guests placed their competitive bids on more than 70 packages that were graciously donated by area merchants.

Attendees visited multiple food stations that featured Game Day favorites, including gumbo, meat pies, tacos, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, BBQ sliders and a variety of desserts. A big round of applause goes out to BBQ West, Crumb’s Catering, Ponchatoula’s, Portico and Uptown Downtown for catering the event.

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Dinner was followed by the Big Dance live auction that included class projects, a Limousines Unlimited night on the town, and a hunting trip to name just a few. Auctioneer Ben Dance rallied the crowd as bidding went through the roof on a chartered flight for six.

Roman Farrar and Frank Johnson event cochairs along with Mikie Pearce assisted with the live auction and were extremely pleased and grateful for the generosity of the guests.

At the close of the live auction, guests had the opportunity to “Raise the Paddle” for interior renovations of the Multipurpose Building, which includes modernizing the stage, upgrading the sound system, lighting, and replacing the curtains. Plans include paint, windows, doors and awnings as well as new siding and AC/Heat for the Multipurpose. These much-needed improvements will greatly enhance our student performances and provide an appropriate space for special events.

Cedar Creek’s Drama Club and Department have been an integral part of the school experience for some time, engaging many of our students and showcasing their incredible talents. In the past year, the school has staged the performance of numerous theatrical presentations, including “The Jungle Book,” “Guys and Dolls” and “The Secret Garden.” Students in the school’s Middle School and High School are part of these performances, which include not only the actors and actresses on the stage, but also the behind-the-scenes stage workers.

Another part of Cedar Creek’s performing arts program includes multiple performances by students from PreKindergarten through Fifth Grade. From

the fall to late spring, the elementary classes entertain parents, grandparents and fellow students with a wide variety of musical programs that integrate performance with the classroom curriculum. Many of the productions have become traditions for the school, creating memories the students will cherish forever.

Celebration 2018 concluded with a drawing for the Fire and Ice Raffle package that included a diamond pendant necklace along with a Big Green Egg. Special thanks to National Jewelry and Hodge Bank and Trust for sponsoring the raffle. The grand finale of the evening was a drawing for one year of Cedar Creek tuition.

Andrew Yepson, Head of School, expressed his appreciation for the generosity of the Cedar Creek community, “It is truly overwhelming to see the support that our families and friends show for this annual event. I am extremely excited about the enthusiasm that continues to be shown for the campus-wide renovation projects.”

The entire Cedar Creek community appreciates the generous support of our sponsors, merchants, parents, grandparents, alumni and friends that made Game Day an overwhelming success! Thank You!

To learn more about Cedar Creek School please visit our website www.cedarcreekschool.org or contact Cedar Creek School 318-255-7707.

Cedar Creek School seeks to provide a superior college preparatory educational experience to students in North Central Louisiana based on the highest standards of academic excellence and personal conduct

What to Expect When You’re Wedding A guide for new brides and grooms for navigating the practical side of newlyweds

A R T I C L E B Y M I C H A E L D E V A U LT

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or Ali Beasley, joint banking made life simpler. For Ashley Ambrew, taxes proved a challenge. Anna Grace Livingston wasn’t quite prepared for doubling up on household duties. Three brides, each facing different post-wedding challenges, opened up to BayouLife about how they’ve faired in the early stages of their marriages.

The days and weeks leading up to a wedding can be challenging even for the most prepared brides and grooms. But after the honeymoon, practical affairs can threaten newlywed bliss. From changing your name on your Social Security card to filing joint tax returns, the first year of marriage requires a lot of paperwork. Along the way, concerns about chores, faith and holidays crop up. That’s why we’ve reached out to our new brides – and estate attorney Lauren Davis – to help you navigate year one of your new life with your new spouse. A lot has changed over the years, according to Lauren.“People don’t tend to get married quite as young as they used to, though some still do,” she points out. “Young couples 52 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

are just finding their way and don’t tend to have much. But some couples who are getting married for the first time have an established career, they’ve gotten a bit ahead financially, and maybe they own property.”

Further complications can arise when one spouse or both were previously married. “The complications and needs they face depend on where the bride and groom are at that point in life,” Lauren says. “I can definitely say, though, that there’s a lot of financial work to be done, which we see a lot of.”

Ashley knows just what Lauren means.

Less than a year after marrying her husband, Quan, Ashley confronted the new household’s income taxes. A self-described Type-A personality, Ashley is meticulously organized and plans things out weeks or months in advance. Her new husband? Well…

“We had difficulties,” she says, with a laugh. “I didn’t realize we had to do all of this itemizing, filing jointly, and my husband is incredibly last-minute with everything.

Needless to say, he’s not the most organized person.”

Quan works offshore, which means there are deductions he can take for certain expenses, per diems to account for, and other considerations. Many of the deductions require receipts to be documented, a process that Ashley says was kind of daunting. Looking back, she knows exactly what she would do from the get-go to help tax time go more smoothly. “I would spend more time helping him be prepared and organized, so that later on, I wouldn’t have been so stressed out,” she says. “To me, it was like wedding planning all over again.”

Avoiding those kinds of pitfalls through organization of end-of-year finances can be made easier through organization. Ashley tackles the problems today with a sense of understanding she lacked going into tax season as a newlywed. She’s assigned a shoebox for Quan’s receipts, and once a month or so, she files the contents of the box, so that when tax time comes, they’ll be ready to run reports, print out copies of expense records, and file quickly.

It’s a smart move to be prepared, Lauren suggests, especially when it comes to finances. “Couples tend most often to have disagreements in the first year of marriage because of financial reasons,” she says. “I usually recommend they have a good financial person in their life, whether that be a CPA or a financial advisor and planner.”

Another vital step is transparency and communication, and not just on the financial front. Lauren recommends poring over finances and making sure everything is accounted for before you get married. That includes making lists of all your assets and debts. “When couples marry, unless you enter into a marriage contract – what most people call a prenup – everything you acquire during marriage, including debt, is half-his and halfhers,” she says. “It’s good to be open and honest going into a marriage, so that you know what’s there.”

For Ali Beasley, who married Michael in January of this year, one of the biggest helps was immediately establishing a joint bank account, which she says has helped a lot. “I never thought I’d like a joint bank account, but it’s been really nice, because it’s all just right there,” she says. “There are no surprises, and we know what’s coming and when. It’s easy to budget, knowing what’s in there and not having to juggle expenses between accounts.”

With less than a year under her belt so far, Ali’s still in the “updating everything” phase.

She credits her matron of honor, Anna Grace Livingston, with helping her prepare for the immediate post-wedding crush. Enlisting an ally who’s been through it is important. “At first, it was overwhelming, but that didn’t last too long, because Anna Grace had gotten married just a couple of years before, and she knew what was coming,” she says.

Another vital resource in their marriage’s early success has been their pastor, Daryl Tate, who put them through pre-marriage counseling.

Not only did he outline the practical steps – Social Security comes before DMV, but marriage certificates come before Social Security, for example –- he also helped them work through some of the decisions they’d have to make in the earliest parts of their marriage.

During counseling, they discussed how they’d raise their children – and how many children they wanted. They also made commitments about how they’d handle careers if one spouse found an opportunity elsewhere.

“I think having those conversations before you get married takes a lot off your plate once you are married,” Ali says.

For Anna Grace, her matron of honor, the biggest surprise of marriage came with the demands of a two-person household.“I was surprised at how many clothes I had to wash!” she says. “They don’t pick up their clothes, and you have to be the laundry fairy.”

She and her husband, Jon Michael, had dated for five years before getting engaged.

A year later, they married. Now going on their eighth year together and second year of marriage, Anna Grace has one simple piece of advice for new wives. Instead, brides and grooms alike should be prepared to take on the new challenges of running a shared household.

That means discussing division of labor. “Don’t have unrealistic expectations,” she says. “You see the movies and you think you’re going to have this fairy tale marriage, but that’s the movies. Then, just as you come down off that wedding high, you come home and have to do two loads of laundry instead of one, and you have to sweep the kitchen twice a day because you have two dogs, not just one.”

Put another way: communication between spouses about responsibilities around the house is equally vital. Husbands and wives get to work through it together. “You’re not just getting a new husband or wife,” Anna Grace notes. “You’re getting a long-term roommate, too.”

Also, all three brides pointed to the same, singular step to help make life run much smoother: make as many of the joint decisions as you can before you get married, and that way, you’ve established your pattern of effective communication, decision making over trivial matters is done, and you have laid a strong foundation upon which to build a future together.

Lauren identifies two easy components to this process: discussion and equity involvement.

“To me, what I see is that there isn’t one right way for every couple,” she says. “Couples are different depending on who they are.”

That can mean different financial strategies for different couples, varying hierarchies of decision making, and space to make those decisions together. Whether the decision is

where they’re going to live or if they’ll share a joint bank account, those are matters they should decide together, beforehand. Most importantly, though, the couple should make the decisions together. “It’s for the couple to determine what’s best for them and then go that way,” Lauren says. “Don’t just do what your best friend does. Do what’s right for you.”

The second component, equity involvement, means they both have to have a say. This not only helps establish a healthy relationship from the beginning, it also helps if something happens to one spouse. While that may be decades away, it’s still important now.

“In older generations, I see a lot of situations where the man took care of all the financial things,” she says. “So I have little old ladies who’ve been married 60 years who don’t know what they have or where anything is.”

Instead of putting your spouse in that situation, make sure you list assets, accounts, insurance policies and other important documents all in one place. Also, make a list of Internet and banking passwords. That way, both spouses are prepared.“Even if you don’t want to do the bills and the money and they enjoy doing it, that’s fine,” Lauren says. “But you need to know what you have and where it is.”

Another important component young couples should consider is putting into place an adequate will that protects them both in case something happens. That’s important even if the spouses don’t have much when they get married, because, eventually, they will. “A simple will doesn’t take more than an hour or so, and it’s not going to be a huge expense,” Lauren says. “But that $300 to $500 you spend now in my office is going to give you peace of mind in the long run.”

A small investment now can save hundreds or thousands of dollars and months of time, Lauren points out. Though no one wishes to go through losing a spouse, being prepared for that eventuality can make transitions much less traumatic in the eventuality that they do.

And there’s just one more thing, Ali points out. No amount of planning, pre-wedding counseling or discussion can prepare you for every eventuality. But you’ll have the skills necessary to approach challenges together when they arise. That’s been the case with something she wishes they’d hashed out sooner: holidays.“I don’t think you’re prepared for getting a whole other family,” she says. “We are both very close to our families, and that’s been the part we struggle on – how to manage time between our families.”

So maybe, while weighing joint bank accounts, trips to the DMV and visits with the financial adviser, take a minute or two and talk about how you and your new spouse will spend the holiday season. With all those years stretching out before you, you’ll be glad you’ve settled this one before you start.

MEET OUR NEWLYWEDS

ANNA GRACE AND JON MICHAEL LIVINGSTON

ASHLEY AND QUAN AMBREW

ALI AND MICHAEL GARRIGA

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TH E WED D I N G I SSU E PA RT Y FAVORS

From top to bottom: Lemon blueberry cupcake with cream cheese frosting from Social Bites; German chocolate cupcakes with fudge icing from Thurman’s Food Factory; pink champagne cupcakes with butter cream icing and handmade edible flowers from Uptown Downtown.

C U P CA K E PA RT Y End your wedding festivities on a sweet note. Set out empty boxes for guests to take as a favor or dig right in after a stroll on the dance floor. These confection perfections are all available from local bakeries. Photo by Kelly Moore Clark

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Downtown Gallery Crawl

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The Downtown Arts Alliance along with numerous sponsors hosted the Downtown Gallery Crawl on April 5th. Crawlers took the streets of downtown Monroe and West Monroe to enjoy local artist. Inspired by nature, artist Larrie King displayed paintings at the Outside Gallery. Sugar Gallery celebrated with resident artist Doug Breckenridge’s newest oil paintings, while Burg Ransom exhibited wildlife photos. RUMO’s Gallery showcased paintings by Louisiana native, Chase Mullen. UPSTAIRS Gallery featured creations from Monroe native, Clint Downing. Every gallery had great items for those looking for special pieces.

Mark your calendar for the next crawl on June 7th.

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Jennifer Lord and Katharine Spires Emily Gautreaux and Bethany Wilkins P aul and Ginger DeBruhl-Stapp K im Kelly, Patrik Pyburn, Logan Norred, Anna Wheelis, Zachary Johnston, Jenn Robinson and Torey Wallis 5 Jennifer and Jason Thomas 6 LaTrial, Michael Jr. and Michael Thompson Sr. 7 J onsy Renae, DeShea Hutto, Christel Sharp, Alexis Price and Mya Hardwell 8 Susan Taylor, Bo Taylor, Brett Armintor, Jimbob Townley and Amy Cox 9 Z ach Cox, Shane Sullivan, Hillary Tucker, Benton Martin and Jacklyn Lowe 10 F riday Ellis, Friday III, Asher, Aurie and Ashley Ellis 11 Russell Moore and Brandon Donohue 12 Asja Jordan and Vanelis Rivera 13 Jerrica Bennett, Erin Austin and Daniel Austin 14 Samantha Dortch and Allyson Clark 15 L eigh Buffington and Jennie Ellerbee 16 Sara Lambert and Lisa Mullen 17 Shonnette Blakeney and Abigail McManus

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LOVE

Meredith’s Musings Love Bubble |

By Meredith McKinnie

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was 10 minutes in to my typical 30-minute soak in the tub, when the phone rang. It was my friend Josephine, and she had a question for me. “Will you marry us?” I was stunned. Marry them? I wasn’t qualified, nor a pastor. When she reassured me, they wanted a non-religious ceremony, I settled a bit. It took some pressure off. Perhaps it was because it was a year out from the event, perhaps because I was hormonal and pregnant and questioning my place in the world, but I agreed. I hit the end call button and sunk underneath the water, never questioning my choice.

I met with the couple at their new home, discussing their vision for the ceremony and what they expected from me. I was getting more excited about the prospect of being in charge, and even more honored they had chosen me. When I was taking notes, assembling a script, sweet Ugur, the groom, encouraged me to just be myself, that’s why they’d asked me. They’re a classy couple, with a unique story, his being raised

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across the world in Turkey and her right here in Winnsboro, Louisiana. They had overcome the odds of cultural differences to find a symbiosis that enriched the two as individuals. I was proud of them, proud to know them and encouraged by their love for each other.

April 28, 2018, was a beautiful sunny day. My stepdaughter, Husband and myself drove the hour to the site. Stepdaughter read through my script, practicing her reading and reinforcing my material. I liked hearing my love words on the tip of her tongue. It cemented their significance for me. When we arrived, we entered a fairy tale of overhanging trees, globe lights, sunshine streaming through branches and still water with a wooden bridge connecting the ceremony site to the reception. It was magical, much like the couple I was there to marry. Rose petal pink fabric draped the tables and the arch with bursts of roses, peonies and tulips.

I escorted the groom and his mother across the bridge, careful to walk a few steps ahead to give them moments together. She’d

traveled across the globe; she deserved the time alone with her son. The ceremony was small and intimate; every person there was someone the couple loved dearly, no extra seat-fillers for effect. I took my place under the arch, and Ugur stood beside me. He kept taking deep breaths. He was nervous. This was his wedding day, and his beloved was about to make her appearance. They agreed he wouldn’t look until she came up the hill, as she had to travel the long bridge to get to the site. When she was halfway across, under the canopy of trees, a few rays of sunlight trickled through and danced on her shoulders. I couldn’t help myself; I gasped and said, “The sunlight is on her face.” Ugur whipped around, caught a glimpse of his beloved and was overcome with emotion. He started spouting in Turkish to his best man, and I felt the tears fill my eyes. I only cried once during the ceremony, and it was before my friend ever reached the arch.

I eased through the readings with the experience of a performer. I had done this before, only on a different stage, to a different crowd, in a different mood. I know when to inflect my voice for effect, pace words to emphasize certain sentiments. I watched the audience following my cues, though focused on the couple only inches away from me.

I’ve been to weddings before, but never from that viewpoint. I saw the bride squeeze her groom’s hand during his handwritten vows, saw him stroke her palm as she promised to love him forever. I felt their commitment; their love was enveloped around them, and I was lucky enough to be in their love bubble.

I watched Josephine’s dad tear up when she mentioned him during her vows, her mother’s cry/smile at the mention of her silliness. The bride mentioned loved ones individually and their qualities she promised to bring to the marriage. It was the most honest, touching tribute to both family and future family in one moment that I’d ever seen. I was lucky to be standing there, conducting this event and reveling in their adoration for one another.

I caught the love bug that day, relished in the couple’s little love bubble. I’ll remember it as long as live. Weddings will never be the same from a pew. I witnessed commitments made from the focal point, and I am forever grateful to have been so up close to love.

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ACTUAL CLIENT PHOTOS

Say Goodbye to…Duck Lips!

Not All Injections Lead to Fake Duck Lips!

BY DR. GRANT GLOVER, DDS

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OST OF OUR APPREHENSIONS TO LIP INJECTIONS are justified, as we all notice the bad and fake ones.We notice the botched lips, face lifts and other body enhancement procedures, which cause us to be skeptical. We don’t notice the good ones, as they look like they are supposed to look…NATURAL! I like Juvévderm’s statement…”Everyone will notice; no one will know!”

THE BEST COMPLIMENT IS NO COMPLIMENT!

When I do a procedure like cosmetic veneers, crowns or lip and facial enhancement injections…I want to improve on what the patient has or even correct a problem, but to do so NATURALLY!

There is no greater compliment than to please my patients in achieving their goals for their enhancement in such a way that it blends into their face in a way where the problem is corrected, but no one knows.

Some of my favorite compliments and feedback from my patients are friends asking them if they have lost weight or changed their hairstyle, as they know something is different and better, but they don’t know what.

COMMUNICATION IS A MUST!

I watch my patients as they talk and use their muscles of facial expression. So, in addition to listening to what my patients desire, I will make suggestions, and we will come up with a plan TOGETHER. NO PLASTIC LOOK IN MY OFFICE!

I like to leave some natural lines of facial expression. While some patients want all of their lines and flaws removed, I feel that less is more! We can always add more Botox and Juvéderm filler, as no one will ever say in my office that we did too much.

NO EYE DROOPING AT MY OFFICE!

While we have to state eye dropping is a potential side effect of Botox, it’s not in my office, as I’m highly trained in where to place to prevent this. In fact…I commonly do an eye lift that most women find very appealing.

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WHAT SEPARATES ME FROM OTHER PRACTITIONERS?

Communication….Listening to the needs of each individual patients to achieve their specific goals.

Expertise….I’ve had extensive training and have done hundreds of patients.

Gentle….I care about a pleasant experience, painlessly done.

Results….All my patients seem to say the same thing, especially after I complete their lip enhancement….They comment on how long and thoroughly I massage the material into the lips to ensure shape and a seamless feel with no lumps.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BOTOX AND FILLERS?

It can be confusing to patients as to whether they need fillers or Botox.

Briefly…Botox inactivates the muscle thus wrinkles go away.

It is most commonly used in the upper part of the face…forehead, frown lines and crows feet.

Fillers like Juvéderm are mainly used in the lower face removing deep lines below the nose, droopy mouth corners and, of course, lip enhancement.

Dr. Glover has over 30 years of dentistry experience in Louisiana. He graduated from Neville High School in Monroe and continued his education at Louisiana Tech University. It was then that he pursued further education in the field of dentistry at Louisiana State University. Patients range in age from 3 to 93. Dr. Glover began improving smiles and building confidence in his patients in 1987 and believes that there are three phases of dentistry: General, Cosmetic and Facial.

Your smile is the first thing others notice about you, and a beautiful smile gives you confidence and self satisfaction.

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I N V I TAT I O N

Inspiration

Set the stage for a memorable wedding with a stunning invite. Incorporate personal details into the suite’s design for an invitation that is unforgettable. styling by TAYLOR BENNETT photography by KELLY MOORE CLARK

PAPERGLAZE CALLIGRAPHY Hand-lettering and pen-and-ink drawings add a special touch to this personalized invitation.

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THE PAPER MARKET For a timeless appeal, choose an invitation suite with neutral florals.

This design has a modern and elegant look.

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SIR SPEEDY For an eye-catching invite, choose a watercolor floral design in a vibrant hue.

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Legends 32 Cigar and Vape Lounge Local Legend Embarks on New Venture

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ESTLED IN QUAINT TOWN OF RUSTON IS THE latest addition to the unique town, Legends 32 Cigar and Vape Lounge. Karl Malone has been a staple in the community for years, but basketball isn’t the only thing he wants to be remembered for. “This has been a dream of mine for over 30 years. I’ve been to plenty of cigar shops, and I wanted to make this one unique.”

The town of Ruston is growing everyday, and its no surprise that Karl Malone wanted to join in on the fun with a unique space like Legends. “To be honest, I get frustrated with people in this area that think that Ruston doesn’t like or deserve nice things. I love Monroe and Shreveport, but everyone thinks that those cities are the only places with anything to do. Ruston is expanding rapidly.”

Lined with black leather couches and studded armchairs, the main space of Legends is warm and welcoming. Men and women smoking freely and enjoying their specialty-blended cigars was the vision Karl had in mind when he built Legends. Karl’s wife Kay, and daughter/general manager Kadee, helped with the décor of Legends, and wanted it to represent Karl’s life and personality in a way that people could understand him better. Sports memorabilia, deer heads and hunter’s tin were all used in the décor. Off the main lounge area are two private rooms for members or private events.

The conference room is equipped with a large conference table, large flat screen and sports memorabilia, and was designed for meetings and private cigar classes. In the future, Karl is planning to have the CEO of La Aurora Cigar Company, Guillermo León Herbert come to the grand opening.

Legends also offers a private room with an intimate feel, perfect for a few friends to hang out and enjoy their cigars. Just beyond the two private rooms is a luscious outdoor area, featuring a fountain, hammock chairs and large comfortable couches for customers to sit back, light up and enjoy the day. The spacious humidor features large shelves of various blends of cigars. In addition, the humidor houses the private member lockers. These lockers are part of the “membership program” Karl set up for Legends. Merchandise will be available for each member to enjoy as well as access to the two private rooms. “There are only nineteen lockers for a reason. We will offer that many memberships, and it is an exclusive deal.”

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Legends is a place where people of all backgrounds are invited to sit back, relax and enjoy a beautifully blended cigar. Just like a cigar’s making, people are blended together from all different backgrounds. “I have a passion for great cigars. I love that you can be as rich or poor as you want to be, and you can be anywhere: beach, stream or mountain- when you light up a cigar you can be whoever you want to be.” In fact, Legends has a tobacconist license, so they will be able to fill orders of a variety of blends so customers can customize their orders. But Legends isn’t just a cigar shop.

Legends has their own line of vape and tobacco blends. On July 12, Karl and the rest of the Legends Family will be introducing their specialty blend to the world in Las Vegas at one of the industry’s biggest conventions.

In addition to Legends Cigar Lounge, Karl has been busy with another project across the road, 5.11 by Karl Malone. 5.11 is a tactical, lifestyle brand that Karl has been wearing for years.

However, it’s not all tactical. 5.11 is designed for the everyday man or woman.

Inside the new store is a small coffee shop, Black Rifle Coffee.

Karl wanted to dedicate this coffee station to the men and women that fight for our freedom, and he has a special way of doing so.

“The CEO of 5.11, Tom Davin, was Special Ops in the Marines, and we are dedicating a wall in Black Rifle Coffee to our veterans and men and women in uniform. It’s a small way to show how much we appreciate it. Freedom isn’t free.” Complimentary Black Rifle Coffee will be brewed daily for veterans, and men and women in uniform.

“I know my name was made with the game of basketball, but that’s not what I want to be remembered for,” said Karl. “I want to be remembered as a guy that left life better than I found it.” Both Legends and 5.11 by Karl Malone will open this month so stop by and see how Karl is creating a legacy and adding to his own legend in Ruston and beyond.

BayouTrends

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School’s out and summer is in! Sport the season’s hottest hues with these items from area retailers. From golden nails to smokin’ hot grills, we’ve got what you need to be cool this summer!

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1. BALDWIN’S ANTIQUE JEWELRY 2. PAMPERED & POLISHED 3. LEWIS’ GIFTS 4. HOLLIS & COMPANY 5. FAMILY EYE CARE 6. WASHINGTON WINE AND SPIRITS 7.HERRINGSTONE’S 8.THE PAPER MARKET 9. MATERIAL THINGS 10. GIRLFRIENDS 2 11. SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE 12. DUPONT JEWELERS 13. THE MUFFIN TIN 14. RODEO BOUTIQUE 15. TONORE’S WINE CELLAR 16. COBURN’S 17. DERMA MEDIQ 18. ROSE BOUTIQUE 19. RON ALEXANDER CLOTHIERS 20. ELEVEN 26 21. DEER CREEK BATH CO. 22. FIESTA NUTRITION CENTER 23. STEVE’S JEWELRY 24. PETALS & PEARLS 70 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Spa Nouvelle and Derma MediQ How to Plan and Start a Wedding Beauty Regimen

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OU’VE GOTTEN ENGAGED, congratulations! Now its time to get down to business; the business of beauty that is. Don’t panic. We at Spa Nouvelle and Derma MediQ love our brides and are here to help you with your wedding beauty plan.

Flawless skin should definitely be a top priority. Drew Farr and Wendy Newsom can assess your complexion’s current state way better than you and your magnifying mirror.

We can help devise a strategy for achieving your dream-like skin goals. At the time of your appointment, we will discuss your skin type and any problems or concerns you may have. Some treatments take time - up to several months -and you certainly want a game plan that’s just for you. We will also discuss your at- home skin care routine. We carry SkinCeuticals, and we are blown away by the results from this skin care line. While we know it’s YOUR big day, we also want the moms to feel and look their best as well. We will work with your budget and your skin to have you glowing down the aisle. And don’t forget all the people who are helping make this day so special for you. You can pick up a gift certificate for them as a way to say thank you.

Here are a few of our “glowing’’ favorites: • Oxygen Hydro Facial • Dermaplaning • Chemical peels • B5 Hydrating Facial MASSAGE We know being a Bride can be very stressful. We want to remind to you be sure and take time for yourself during this exciting time of your life. We know that emotions will be running high. Our massage therapists Ana

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Hale and Mary Beth Dickerson are here to help take away that pre-wedding stress and get you ready for your big day, MIND AND BODY. Our massage therapists will talk to you in detail about your needs and customize your massage just for you. It doesn’t get much better than that, and our massage therapists are A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!

The Signature Massage – our signature massage is a spa favorite with 80 minutes of bodywork with essential oils (sounds like heaven, doesn’t it?)

Deep Tissue Massage – a wonderful remedy for those tired muscles from all those pre-wedding workouts.

OTHER TREATMENTS AND FILLERS Dr. Saidi Sowma-Fakhre and her well trained staff at Derma MediQ know a thing or two about helping women look and feel their best. We have many treatment options and are more than willing to help you find one that best suits your needs.

We know that you want to be the blushing bride. Ruddy bride? Not so much. Try intensepulsed-light or IPL. This treatment helps improve redness from rosacea and broken capillaries. It can also target sunspots, age spots and freckles.

Have you been thinking about laser hair removal? Now is the time! How nice would the honeymoon be having all of that taken care of? Schedule an appointment with Reba Custer, LPN, for you’re under arms, bikini area, chin and lip.

You’ve heard of Botox, everyone’s favorite, but what about Juvéderm, Restylane and other dermal fillers on the market? Some are best for plumping and replacing volume to

the skin for a soft, youthful look. Others can be utilized to shape the face, for example, by giving the bride more-prominent cheekbones.

Dr. Sowma-Fakhre will discuss with you which treatments are the best fit for you.

We don’t want to forget our Mothers and Grandmothers of the bride and groom. Do you want to rejuvenate and restore your skin? We offer Fractora. Fractora is a superior solution to decrease wrinkles, improve skin complexion, reduce skin irregularities (including acne/ acne scars) and provide a healthier younger looking you. Fractora is a favorite for sure.

If you are bothered by your chin profile or feeling self-conscious about your double chin, we offer nonsurgical Kybella. The results are impressive. We are excited to also offer PDO threads. PDO threads are a non-invasive lunchtime treatment for loose and sagging skin.

Derma MediQ and Stephanie Powell,LPN can help you get rid of those unwanted pounds. LeanMD is a medically supported weight loss programs to help you look, fell better and move better fast. Dr Sowma-Fakhre and Stephanie are dedicated to helping you reach your goals quickly and safely.

Are you looking to amp up your brows before your big day? Kisha Davis, Dr. SowmaFakhre’s aesthetician, will be glad to help you out by microblading your brows. You and Kisha will find to the perfect shape and color.

She also does permanent eyeliner.

Kim Cernigliaro loves our Jane Iredale make up line and would love nothing more than for you to schedule a consult with her, so she can show you all the wonderful things Jane Iredale has to offer.

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Campaign Kickoff Successful Campaign Contributions Exceed Initial Goal

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HE MAY 5, 2018 RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN KICKOFF event for Second Circuit Judge James “Jimbo” Stephens at the home of Onna and Alan Gallagher on Deborah Drive in Monroe was a big success. Carmen Sims, Treasurer, Jimbo Stephens Campaign Committee for Second Circuit Court of Appeal, reported that, not only had they reached the initial campaign contributions goal, but had exceeded it. Judge Stephens thanked Onna and Alan for hosting the party and thanked the crowd for their continued support.

Guests were greeted with a festive Cinco de Mayo theme, starting at the beautiful entrance and, continuing with the Gallagher’s warm hospitality. Angela McBroom, Hope Anderson and Roz Janaway helped Onna and Alan with the impressive decorating, both inside the home and outside on their patio and back yard.

Beef tacos and chicken and steak fajitas with rice and beans were served at the fajita bar, with grilled vegetables. These were complemented by Hope Anderson’s special slaw, along with Mitzi Shelton’s jalapeño cheese grits, Mexican corn dip and salsa. The food was a special treat for everyone.

Gayle and Barry Stephens, Delton Spillers and Thurman’s provided delicious desserts including lemon squares, pecan squares, brownies, cupcakes, fudge, divinity and cake. Choice Brands, Marsala Beverage, Bootleggers and Southern Beverage provided beverages.

Cigars were provided by Friday Ellis of Governors Cigar and Pipe.

Stephens’ Record of Treating Attorneys,Their Clients and Judges with Courtesy and Respect Continues to Earn Broad Support

Last year, voters elected Judge Jimbo Stephens to serve on the Second Circuit Court. Stephens’ 34 years of courtroom experience and his life story of successfully overcoming obstacles were the focus of the campaign. Voters were able to gain an understanding and appreciation of the character and values of the fifth-generation family farmer, rodeo competitor, airplane pilot, grandfather, husband and judge.

“Judge Stephens is an example of how faith and hard work make the impossible possible. He deserves our support as our Second Circuit Court of Appeal Judge.”

– Phil Trahan.

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Stephens’ election last November was to serve out the remaining term of the late Second Circuit Judge Larry Lolley. This division of the Second Circuit includes all of Franklin and Richland parishes, and part of Ouachita, Morehouse and West Carroll parishes. Judge Stephens will qualify in July of this year for a full term on the Second Circuit.

Nine judges serve on the Second Circuit. They review cases on appeal from the district courts in 20 parishes across North Louisiana.

Judge Stephens’ office is in the Vantage Building in Monroe. He routinely travels to the Second Circuit Court in Shreveport to hear oral arguments presented to the court and to attend to other court matters.

Judge Stephens feels that a judge should be independent of party politics and for that reason he is registered as an Independent.

Stephens’ wife, Faith, who is a Republican, supports his position that a judge should be impartial and independent.

Judge Stephens upholds the constitution and does not advocate or legislate from the bench.

He believes in individual rights, especially our right to bear arms.

Judge Stephens has strong law enforcement support because of his record of helping law enforcement protect our families. He is a law and order judge who follows in the footsteps of his father, Judge Sonny Stephens, and his grandfather, Sheriff A. J. Stephens.

“Judge Stephens has always had our back in helping law enforcement protect our communities.”

– Sheriff Kevin Cobb, Franklin Parish.

Jimbo and Faith have three children and four grandchildren.

Faith and Jimbo live on their farm and continue the fifth-generation of family farming.

Judge Stephens is a member of the Louisiana District Judges Association, former President of Fifth District Bar Association, Masonic Lodge #246, Shriners, New Hope Lodge #328, Experimental Aircraft Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, NRA, National Wild Turkey Federation and other organizations.

Photos courtesy of Wade Bishop and Patty Stewart.

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choose your silhouette

illustrations by local artist, Austin Bantel

EMPIRE-WAIST GOWN

A-LINE GOWN

BALL GOWN

TRUMPET GOWN

SHEATH GOWN

MERMAID GOWN

EMPIRE-WAIST GOWN An empire waist gown has a fitted bodice ending just below the bust, giving a high-waisted appearance, and gathered skirt which is long and loose fitting. It’s a great shape for pear-shaped brides.

A-LINE GOWN An A-line gown is fitted at the hips and gradually widens toward the hem, giving the impression of the shape of a capital letter A. It’s a flattering shape for most body types.

BALL GOWN A ball gown features a floor length skirt and traditionally has a full skirt and fitted bodice. They can also feature a train of any length. This gown helps balance brides with a busty shape.

TRUMPET GOWN A trumpet silhouette is a style that features a graduallyflared skirt and a close-fitting bodice that skims the lines of the body, through the hips.

This style can be flattering on a variety of shapes.

SHEATH GOWN A sheath gown is traditionally a fitted, straight cut dress, often nipped at the waistline with no waist seam. This form-fitting silhoutte is perfect for a casual wedding.

MERMAID GOWN A mermaid fit gown is a style that fits close to the body through the torso and hips, then flares out to the floor. This silhouette is perfect for the bride that wants a dress that shows off curves.

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Welcome to the

(wedding) party

Take the Duties of Being a Bridesmaid or Groomsman to the Next Level with These Easy Tips B Y M I C H A E L D E VA U LT

You see the photo on Instagram, two hands interlocked around a sparkling engagement ring. Your good friends are getting married, and you know right then what’s coming next. You’re going to be invited to join the wedding party as a bridesmaid or groomsman.

Congratulations! It’s truly an honor to be asked. But before you jump with joy, know this. Being a member of the wedding party for a modern wedding isn’t all fun and games. A lot of responsibility comes with the role, and you should be prepared to face your duties before you agree to answer the call.

That’s not to say you should think twice about joining the party.

In fact, you absolutely should agree to serve! And if you think ahead, know what you’re in for, and take the task seriously, you’ll have the time of your life, make lasting memories and help your friends have the wedding they’ve always dreamed of.

Before the Wedding

The job of the wedding party often starts long before the big day.

You’ll have to be fitted for your tuxedo or dress, help the bride and groom make decisions about the decorations, and in some cases, you may even be invited to have input into what the big day will look like.

The biggest contribution you can make to your bride and groom is to commit to be there for whatever they need as they begin the titanic job of planning the perfect wedding. That doesn’t necessarily mean you’re 78 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

going to go to the church or the cake tasting. It could be as simple as helping with a chore or three to free up time for them to go make those decisions.

Be flexible and hop in when they need something, and they’ll enjoy the process of throwing a wedding and reception all the more.

You’d be surprised how much the hour or two you’ve saved them by mowing the lawn or helping with the puppies can mean to busy, young professionals getting ready for their wedding.

For the Bride and Groom: When you’re looking at prospective bridesmaids and groomsmen, make sure you’re asking people who have the time and resources to serve. Don’t be afraid to ask them if they’re in a position to join the wedding party, because not everyone is. More importantly: they are here to help you. You’re in charge of your wedding, but that doesn’t mean you’re doing the whole thing yourself. They exist for a reason – to help you.

Don’t demure. Ask for help, and you’ll get it. People are eager to help! This is doubly true of the maid of honor and best man.

The Bachelor(ette) Party!

The tradition used to be that the bachelor and bachelorette parties were thrown the night before the wedding. That shifted to the evening before the rehearsal, but today, the idea of a fixed night for the parties is long gone.

These days, it’s not uncommon for the two parties to fall on different nights in different weeks. Also, it’s become increasingly common for the bride and groom to have direct input into the planning and execution of the parties. To that end, if you’re the best man, the maid of honor, it falls mostly to you to make arrangements for the party.

Find out what your bride or groom wants for their event. This is, after all, a party for them to enjoy their time with you. What is fun to one bride or groom isn’t necessarily a good fit for another. Some men might enjoy a night of whiskey, cigars and cards at their favorite cigar shop. Other men may want a raucous party with plenty of loud music and embarrassing stories.

wedding. But guess what? You’ve made a commitment to be there for the wedding, and that means the day before. You can help out the mother of the bride with last-minute errands before the rehearsal, help decorate the church or the reception hall, and even pack and tie those tiny bags of birdseed.

At the rehearsal dinner, it’s a tradition to share funny stories about your bride or groom, to talk about what they’ve meant to you, and to give a toast or two. Be mindful of your audience, though, and maybe leave out the story about the bride’s horrible night after the Senior Cruise luau on the cruise all those years ago – unless she’s the kind of girl who appreciates the story and would laugh along with you.

Once dinner is cleared away, it’s off to separate locales for the lot of you. Bridesmaids should be ready to entertain the bride for the evening and help with last-minute duties. The same is true of groomsmen, so be prepared to have a good time with friends, do a little work and take it easy. No one wants to be tired or worse – hung over – on their wedding day!

For the Bride and Groom: Your wedding party has brought you this far.

Make sure they know the rehearsal dinner is a big thank you to them for all their hard work and dedication. Choose a meal they’ll enjoy, serve beverages they like and let them let their hair down. More and more, the rehearsal dinner is becoming a “pre-wedding party” for the wedding party, and that’s a great “thank you.”

Brides vary, too. Where one bride might enjoy a destination bachelorette party in Nashville (the bachelorette capital of the world) or a night on Bourbon Street (a close second), another bride might prefer a quiet evening with wine, popcorn and binging Season 2 of Stranger Things.

Most importantly, make sure you pick a party that’s appropriate for the entire group. If your bride has a 14-year-old sister who’s in the wedding party, forgo Beale Street bars in favor of a house party, where she can be involved, too. Just because a member of the party is younger doesn’t mean you should exclude them.

For the Bride and Groom: Before it comes time to attend a party in your honor, be sure to set boundaries. Let your best man and maid of honor know what you want to happen and, more importantly, what you don’t want at your party. Even though they’re tasked with planning and hosting it, it’s still your party.

Wedding Rehearsals, Rehearsal Dinners, Wedding Nights, Oh My!

It’s typically on the day before the wedding that the wheels start to come off the wagon. So don’t let that happen. Make sure you’ve cleared the decks for the entire day, that you’re there and ready to help with whatever your friends need.

Everyone has jobs and responsibilities and lives apart from the

The Big Show

You’ve been working for a year for the big day, and now it’s here.

Your friends are getting married and they’ve asked you to be a part of it. Here are a few ways to make the most of their wedding day.

First, brides and grooms have to eat. Make sure they’re not accidentally fasting all day. Offer snacks and keep a bottle of water handy. Bridesmaids, your job is to be just that – a maid for the bride.

Whatever she needs, that’s your job. Same goes for you, groomsmen.

And, like you did the day before, make sure you’re available for the whole day. You’re at their beck and call. That could mean picking up dear Auntie Gertrude from the airport or running down to Brookshire’s for more floral wire.

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Whatever you do, do it with a smile and willingness to be of service. It’s their day, not yours, and even in the case of the worst bridezillas, you’ll be glad you did, because your friend will be so thankful when she looks back at her wedding pictures and sees happy people looking amazing.

For the Bride and Groom: A recent innovation has been a bridal breakfast for the bride, her mother, and the bridesmaids, and many grooms and groomsmen have followed suit. If you decide to host breakfasts for the bridal and groom parties, make sure to extend an invitation to the men and women from both sides of the aisle. The father of the bride needs to eat, too, and he’ll appreciate the chance to spend a few minutes with his new son-in-law.

And ladies, your mothers are going to share everything from now on – their children (you and your spouse), their holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas are never going to be the same), and eventually, their grandchildren. Now is as good a time as any to get them in the same room together.

The Reception and Beyond!

It’s done! Let your hair down and cut a rug. Eat a good meal.

Drink a drink. Heck, drink three! You’ve earned it. But don’t lose sight of this: it’s still your job to make sure everybody has a great time.

During the meal, visit with the families of the newlyweds. Laugh at all the Dad Jokes the father of the bride makes. Applaud for the father of the groom. Cheer on the maid of honor and the best man.

Afterwards, keep everyone engaged by making sure you get out there and dance. If you see someone sitting on their hands, invite them to dance with you! They’ll appreciate the invitation, and nothing will make your newlyweds happier than seeing Auntie Gertrude cutting a rug with a handsome fellah in a tux.

Most importantly, make sure the newlyweds can enjoy their honeymoon by offering to take on the tasks they need handled. That may mean dog-sitting for a few days, keeping an eye on the house or just getting the mail. They’ll have a much better time if they know the capable crew who helped them pull of the wedding of the century is still on hand to help make the honeymoon a success.

And maybe don’t overdo the practical jokes when it comes to the get-away car!

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For the Newlyweds: Let your wedding party know how much you appreciate them with gifts that fit the theme of your wedding but also say “We appreciate you!” for the long-run. Instead of a single gift for each participant, consider assembling customized swag bags for their gifts. Give each bridesmaid and groomsman something to commemorate and remember the day – it can be as simple as a dated keychain or engraved penknife. Include something practical, like a gift card to the movies. And in each bag tuck a special something you’ve selected for each one of them, to show you appreciate all their hard work. The gifts don’t have to be expensive. But they do have to come from the heart.

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The Better Business Bureau Who We Are and What Do We Do

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OR MORE THAN 100 YEARS, THE Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2016, people turned to BBB more than 167 million times for BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.2 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at bbb. org. The Council of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for the local, independent BBBs in the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as home to its national and international programs on dispute resolution, advertising review, industry self-regulation, arbitration, scam warnings, business reviews, charity reviews, educational programs, ethics programs for schools and businesses and Torch Awards for businesses and non-profits.

Since 1906 and now over 100 years later, truth in advertising remains our primary concern, but the present day BBB offices offer many other services to advance market place integrity. One of the key elements of the BBB Accreditation criterion is having businesses monitored by their peers using local boards which represent cross sections of local businesses.

BBB Northeast Louisiana serves the 13 northeastern most parishes in Louisiana and is known as Region 4 of BBB Northeast and Central Louisiana and the Ark-LA-Tex. The Monroe-based BBB Advisory Board meets quarterly with CEO Andy Fisher, housed in Shreveport. The local Board Members who represent BBB Accredited Businesses are: Sherry Martin – ALL Plumbing 24/7; Fred Hill - Home Appliance/Skent’n Dent; Paul Ledford – Peregrine Corporation; Sandy Wallace – Richland State Bank; Roderick

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Worthy – Entergy; Frank Nettles – Frank Nettles Automotive; Lynda McGehee – Ouachita Council on Aging; Kelly Coates – Cross Keys Bank; John Kahl– St. Francis Medical Center; Jay Russell – Ouachita Parish Sheriff; Mike Breard – Vantage Health Plan; Joe Murray – Ouachita Valley Federal Credit Union; Linda Tripp– CARE Solutions; Robert Riddle – Riddle Builders; and Susan Russell – Franklin State Bank.

The Better Businees Bureau’s vision is to promote an ethical Marketplace where buyers and sellers can trust each other

The BBB’s mission is to be the Leader in advancing Marketplace Trust by promoting and fostering the highest ethical relationship between business and the public through voluntary self-regulation, consumer and business education and service excellence.

In order to carry out these lofty ideals, the local BBB relies on its BBB Consumer Education Foundation Board to oversee its progress.

The Consumer Education Foundation Board Members consist of members from the parent board and members, who are also BBB accredited businesses but are independent of the parent board: Kalynda Cook – Progressive Bank; Rachel McKenzie – Faulk and Foster; and from the parent Monroe BBB Board: Mike Breard –Vantage Health Plan; Sherry Martin – All Plumbing 24/7; Jay Russell – Ouachita Parish Sheriff; and Lynda McGehee – Ouachita Council on Aging.

Services carried out under their direction include the BBB Financial Crimes Task Force, In Pursuit of Ethics and Ethics in Action and the BBB Laws of Life Essay Contest. BBB Northeast LA-Region 4 partners with the Monroe Rotary to offer the Laws of Life Essay

Contest. The most recent cash awards were presented at the May 3 Meeting of Monroe Rotary.

2018 LAWS OF LIFE ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS (pictured above)

Freshman addressed Courage: 3rd- Gracie May; 2nd- Caleb Baham; and 1st- Susannah Guy (center) Sophomores wrote on Respect: 3rd- Ely McPherson ; 2nd – Caroline Grigson; and 1stHannah Batson (right)

Juniors wrote on Perserverance and Purpose: 3rd- Mary Breard; 2nd- Cameron Van; and 1stIsabella Bolayon (center)

Seniors wrote on their choice of topics: 3rd- Amber Turner; 2nd- Mahlon Markle; and 1st- Alexandra Holliday (left) 2018 TORCH AWARDS

Does your business go “above and beyond” in serving your customers, suppliers employees and community? Do you fulfill your obligation to the marketplace in doing what is right and fair and run an ethical business that people recognize? Are you a BBB Accredited Business?

BBB Accredited Businesses can nominate themselves or another business or non-profit for the 2018 BBB Torch Awards to be held Wednesday July 25, 2018 with Guest Speaker Bill Cheek. BBB will recognize organizations in four categories: Integrity, Customer Commitment, Good Neighbor and Not-forProfit.

The Official Nomination form is found at www.bbbnela.org or call 318-387-4600 for forms and reservations. Deadline for nominations is June 20, 2018.

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Boutonniers

Though they may be little, they are fierce. Make a bold statement with boutonniĂŠrs that pack a mighty punch and reflect your personal style.

~ Photography by Kelly Moore Clark

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It’s a Peachy Paradise!

Fun for Everyone at the 2018 Louisiana Peach Festival

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HE 68TH ANNUAL LOUISIANA Peach Festival presented by JPS Equipment Rental will be held June 22-23, 2018 in Ruston. This year’s theme is “Peachy Paradise.”

Beginning on Monday, June 18, the festivities will start with the now popular game “Peach Stops.” Players will have a week to visit each Stop to have his/her Passport validated with a stamp or sticker. Those players completing the entire Passport as instructed will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize valued at $1,000! Partially completed Passports may be eligible for other prizes.

Details will be included on the Passport.

Also beginning June 18th will be the Peach Hunt sponsored by CenterPoint Energy.

A Mystery Card will be hidden somewhere in Ruston. Find it, and YOU’LL have the key to claiming the $500 Cash! The card will be hidden on public property and can be seen without digging, damaging or disturbing any property. Clues will be given daily until the prize is found. Clues will be printed daily in the Ruston Daily Leader, and aired beginning at 11 a.m. each day on Ruston radio stations Z-107.5 and The Peach 99.3.

The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Ruston Artisans invite you to attend the 2018 Blue Ribbon Dinner/Dance ‘Peachy Paradise’ on Thursday, June 21st.

The event will be held at Ruston Artisans, 203 West Alabama Avenue in historic downtown Ruston. The event begins with a social hour from 6-7 p.m. The annual Louisiana Peach Festival Peach poster art, designed by Pamela Powers and framed by Fine Line Art will be auctioned off at 7 p.m., followed by dinner and dancing.

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Join us for an evening of networking, music, and a delicious meal catered

by Campatori Catering, all in a Caribbean theme. White/linen attire and hats are encouraged. Prepaid reservations are required for this event. Seating is limited. Tickets are $60/person or $550 for a table of 8 and can be purchased at http://bit.ly/PeachParadise.

Louisiana Peachstock: Battle of the Bands is an inaugural event for the Louisiana Peach Festival, and it is scheduled for June 23rd from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. During this event, five bands will compete for the grand prize of $1,000. The lineup includes a wide variety of genres including country, rock, funk, R&B, jazz and soul. The lineup includes: • Formerly Known As… • A.M. Brass Band • After Hours • The Joe Haydel Band • Jordan Sheppard and the Cypress Knees

On the Raising Cane’s Railroad Park Stage this year will be Bag of Donuts (‘60s to Current Cover Band), Lacy Cavalier (Country), John King (Country), Ray Theaux (Steel Drums), Blind Uncle Keith (Rock, Blues & Country), Zach O’Neil (Country), Josh Walker and the Tannehill Band (Rock n Soul/Americana) and KATALYST (Pop, Rock, Blues and Country Cover). Lawrence Gibbs and The Russ-Town Band will perform their annual concert at The Dixie Theatre. Scheduled times can be found at louisianapeachfestival.org and Facebook. com/louisianapeachfestival. You can also stay in touch through Twitter and Instagram with #LaPeachFest.

10 contestants will set out to prove Who Can Eat Peach Cobbler the Fastest In hopes of being hailed the Guinness World Record

holder for Largest Fruit Cobbler, Hampton Inn will sponsor this event. Not only will the winner receive an official Cobbler Eating Championship Belt, $1,000 is at stake! For additional information, contact brandon. sutherland@hilton.com with “Cobbler Gobbler” in the subject line, call (318) 2513090, or download the registration form on louisianapeachfestival.org. Must be 18 or older. 17 and under may participate in the Peach Eating Contest for a prize of $50.

Louisiana Peach Festival comes with events for everyone! “Family Fun in Railroad Park” will include several fun and active things on Friday from Noon until 5 pm, including a Diaper Derby at 3 pm on Friday. The Peachy Play Zone will feature Party Galaxy games, a video gaming trailer, face painting, yard Jenga and Tic-Tac-Toe, a steel drum concert, King Robota - a 12 foot robot, and more. There are many activities being added this year, please check the schedule of events on www. louisianapeachfestival.org and watch for announcements on Facebook @lapeachfest.

Please note that it is not complete at this time as details are still being added. Check out the outlying events too and begin planning your weekend now!

Admission is free for 8 and under both days and free to all from noon until 5 p.m. on Friday, June 22. Daily passes are $10. Weekend passes available for $15. Carnival and challenger rides are not included in admission.

Visit www.louisianapeachfestival.org/ for more information. The Louisiana Peach Festival is produced by the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.

THE WED D I N G I S S UE SIGNAT UR E DRI N KS

TONORE’S WINE CELLAR Honeybubble

WATERFRONT GRILL Berry Basil Margarita

TRIO’S Pineapple Crush

DOE’S EAT PLACE Window Pane 1.5 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon 1 oz Solerno Blood Orange 0.5 oz lemon juice 1 oz mint syrup Mix all ingredients togetherin a shaker and pour over ice. Garnish with orange and mint sprig.

IRON CACTUS The Blue Cactus 1 oz Mango Rum 1 oz pineapple juice 1 oz soda water dash of Blue Curaçao sugar for rim Combine rum, juice and blue Curacçao and shake. Pour the mixture into an ice filled glass and top with soda water.

TRIO’S Pineapple Crush Mint (fresh) Basil (fresh) Pineapple (fresh) Jalapeño (fresh) Lime juice (fresh) Simple Syrup Vodka of Choice Mix all ingredients together and muddle. Pour over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

CO C KTA IL HO U R These signature wedding cocktails are guaranteed to be a hit at your reception. Serve a drink that reflects your personal style, has a seasonal flair and tastes delicious.

Photography by Kelly Moore Clark

WATERFRONT GRILL Berry Basil Margarita 2 oz tequila 1 oz triple sec 1 oz like juice 1 oz simple syrup 1 oz of each of the strawberry and blueberry purées 3 fresh basil leaves 1 fresh mint leaf Margarita mix (sweet n sour) Add the tequila, basil and mint into a shaker and muddle really good. Then, add the remaining ingredients with ice and shake well. Pour into glass with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge and a small spring of basil. Sugar rim is optional. *We made fresh strawberry and blackberry purées, but if you don’t have access to that just use strawberry daiquiri mix.

TONORE’S WINE CELLAR Honeybubble WASHINGTON WINE & SPIRITS Swanner Dreams 1 oz Alpine Preserve Liqueur 1 oz Bluecoat Gin 0.25 oz Lemon Juice 3 oz Champagne/Sparkling wine Pour Alpine Preserve and Bluecoat gin in cocktail shaker with ice and shake. Strain into a champagne glass, top with champagne. Garnish with orange zest or blood orange or edible flowers for a festive look.

1 oz Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka 4 oz brut champagne Fresh raspberries to garnish Mix ingredients, garnish with raspberries and serve during good times in a champagne flute.

ARTICLE BY PHIL TRAHAN

Springtime historically shines a light on high school tennis, as teams from around the state converge on NELA in search of LHSAA championships. This edition of The Tennis Life begins a two-part series showcasing the accomplishments of outstanding teams and individuals who have left their mark on the landscape of Louisiana High School Tennis.

1

St. Fred Duo Proves the Power of Persistence

St. Frederick seniors Ashlyn Hilburn and Mason Ryan could be forgiven for feeling a bit jinxed. As they began the final leg of a six-year doubles partnership begun in seventh grade, their considerable accomplishments had left only one goal unfulfilled - an individual state championship in Girls Doubles.

Over the years Mason and Ashlyn contributed mightily to Warrior teams who collected two team championships and two runner-up finishes. Often competing against older, more experienced players, the girls powered their way to two final and one semifinal appearances, never failing to advance at least to the round of sixteen. A particularly sweet performance came in 2015 when as freshmen they advanced to an all-St. Frederick final, falling only to Mason’s older sister Lily and first cousin Emery Miller. Said Mason of that meeting, “We tried our best, but mostly it was a fun match and we were excited to contribute to the overall team championship.”

As any tennis playing parent can attest, watching your kids play is more nerve-wracking than being on court yourself. For Brenda Hilburn and Cynthia Ryan the past six years have been a journey of love, support and more than a few anxious moments. Ashlyn remembers, “Our moms have been so great. I think they were at every single match, and the pressure they felt was worse than ours.”

Impressive as their athletic achievements have been, Ashlyn and Mason are by no means one-dimensional, both recently receiving Academic All State honors for maintaining perfect 4.0 grade point averages their entire high school careers. Following graduation these stellar student-athletes will no doubt continue to achieve at high levels, Ashlyn at Wofford College and Mason at Ole Miss.

The Tennis Life is proud to salute Mason Ryan and Ashlyn Hilburn as leaders and role models for up and coming tennis student-athletes. Let’s play!

1. Mason and Ashlyn pose with individual championship medals and team runner-up award. 2. Camaraderie and a sense of humor spell success for Mason Ryan, left, and Ashlyn Hilburn. 3. From left, Cynthia and Mason Ryan, Ashlyn and Brenda Hilburn celebrate a state championship. 4. Ashlyn Hilburn rips a forehand return as Mason Ryan closes in for the kill.

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TH E WED D I N G I SSU E W E D D ING CA KES

SWEET SU CC ES S Want your cake to wow? Get inspiration from the best in the business. Three local bakeries put their best wedding cakes forward.

Photo by Kelly Moore Clark

SOCIAL BITES Heather Bailey, owner of Social Bites in Ruston, has the golden touch.

She created this 5-tiered wedding cake with 24k edible gold painted edges, gumpaste ruffles, edible pearls and crystals with an organic-style buttercream frosting. Inside the cake: The bride chose an almond cake with champagne filling, the next tier was carrot cake with cream cheese, a Madagascar bourbon vanilla cake with chocolate ganache filling was a crowd-pleaser, and the top tier was the bride’s favorite, a lemon lavender cake with housemade lemon curd.

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THE WED D I N G I SSU E W E D D ING CA KES

UPTOWN DOWNTOWN Morgan Garrison, owner of Uptown Downtown in Ruston, creates a beautiful 3-tier marble swirl fondant wedding cake with a fresh flower wreath and mirrored acrylic monogram.

Inside the cake: the bottom layer is a white wedding cake with cream cheese and fresh cut strawberries.

The middle layer is zesty lemon cake with lemon curd and fresh blueberries. The top tier was the groom’s childhood favorite – yellow cake with rich chocolate icing.

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TH E WED D I N G I SSU E W E D D IN G CA K ES

THURMAN’S FOOD FACTORY When it comes to creating masterpieces, Thurman Dickey is your confectionery connoisseur. This 4-tier classic white cake with buttercream icing features hand-piped rosettes with three beautiful handcrafted sugar peonies. Accented with rhinestones and topped with an initial, this cake is fit for a royal wedding. Inside the cake: The bride chose a classic white cake with a touch of almond and vanilla flavoring, cream cheese filling and old-fashioned buttercream icing.

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Everything Artsy Event and Floral Design

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O…YOU ARE ENGAGED! IT’S WONDERFUL, EXCITING, exhilarating and then the questions come from out of nowhere!

When and where are you getting married and what type of wedding are you going to have? As brides begin thinking about their events, they are often confused about how much to spend, where to obtain specialized services, and how to choose vendors.

These worries often mount as quickly as the cost of the event. After the excitement wears off and the reality settles in, it’s shocking to discover how much preparation is involved. The average wedding can take more than two hundred and fifty hours to plan. With today’s hectic lifestyles, many brides may not have time to compare all the options, making sure they get the best deal and making sure all the details are in place. This is where a good wedding designer’s number will come in handy.

Not long ago, a wedding designer was thought of as a luxury, only used by the wealthy. Now a designer is an essential element of a well-planned affair. Couples are faced with decisions about everything from invitation wording to venue options as well as many other details, both big and small. It’s not surprising that they turn to professional help. Designers are not here to make decisions for you but to guide and assist you in making informed decisions.

Their training, knowledge and experience will turn your dreams and expectations into reality. They want you to host a beautiful and distinctive event with no worries. You should enjoy your wedding and remember it always as one of the greatest events of your life!

Being experienced in negotiating contracts with vendors and suppliers, the wedding designer saves you valuable time and money.

The designer can take advantage of discounts not available to private parties and avoid costly mistakes while turning your dreams into reality.

Tanya Paul is just that person! She is the owner and lead designer of Everything Artsy Events located in Ruston, Louisiana.

She graduated from Louisiana Tech with a BFA in Graphic Design and a Master’s Degree in Education. Tanya is a former Art Teacher turned amazing florist, designer and everything a bride needs to make her dream wedding a reality. Upon meeting her, you get a true sense of who she is and how she conducts her events. “Tasteful, classy and professional” are just a few of the words used by her

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clients in describing her and her events. She truly treats each event as if it was her own. She loves a challenge and is constantly adding to her collection of events, from trendy to classic, she has you covered in the most stunning, beautiful styles. Her reviews on Facebook and Instagram are filled with amazing photos and designs.

Tanya’s background in art combined with her passion for design are the perfect combination for professional event planning. She incorporates custom, one-of-kind pieces of art into her design work, such as hand painted aisle runners and unique signage.

Tanya has an incredible team of family and friends that work with her “to produce the most dreamy events that one’s imagination can come up with” as quoted by one of her clients. Everything you need for an event is provided by or delivered to Tanya at your venue.

No running around town, last minute to rent or return items used in your event! She takes care of everything! As one Father of the Bride was quoted, “The fact that she set up and took down the event was money well spent! We literally only returned the keys to the venue the next day!”

In a recent interview with newlyweds, Ali and Michael Garriga, the couple gave us more details about why they chose Everything Artsy. Ali and Michael expressed how incredible it was to be able to walk in before the ceremony started, and get to experience it all, without the stress of doing it themselves. Ali says that, “Tanya really listens to what you want, and she gets to know you as a couple so that your wedding décor reflects your vision and personalities. I was never worried about how everything would look, because I knew if Tanya and her team were doing it, it would be done 110%. The tiniest of details didn’t go unnoticed.”

Tanya has a vast collection of decorating materials and resources on hand for any and every type of event. Her shop is full of antique furniture, chandeliers, unique vases and glassware along with a full range of linen options. Everything Artsy Events has everything needed to create your dream wedding. If Tanya doesn’t already have what you want or need, she will find a way to make it happen!

She and her team welcome new ideas and challenges for events and would love the opportunity to work with YOU!

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Wedding Planning Advice F ROM

T HE

PROFES SIONA LS

ar ticle by Meredith McKinnie

Background

Erin Love began as a fashion consultant, organizing clients’ closets and wardrobes. While becoming certified in professional organizing, she took a wedding planning course and is now a certified wedding consultant by the Association of Bridal Consultants. For the last 15 years, Erin has brought structure to people’s lives, taking the stress off brides and customizing events to suit the personalities of her clients.

Her business, Panache by Erin, makes wedding dreams come true.

Gregory Hudgins infuses style and elegance into celebrations, perfecting his business over the last 20 years. A graduate of Louisiana Tech in event planning, he specializes in weddings, dinner parties, bridal showers, any event that brings people together. Also a licensed florist and master gardener through LSU Ag Center, Gregory insists that through years of missteps and mistakes he has learned how to be one of the “best in the business.” People know Gregory and know of his work; most of his clients come by word of mouth. In the initial consultation, Gregory admits he’s interviewing the couple as much as they’re interviewing him. He looks for a connection, a vibe, a necessity for him to do his best work. If he gets you, he can better anticipate your feel for the event.

A veteran of the business, Pam Pickett knows weddings. As a wedding planner, she has created memorable ceremonies and receptions from the most ornate, costly event to the simple, costeffective affair. Pam admits reality TV changed the wedding game, creating big expectations without conveying the cost of such extravagant events. She serves as the bride’s right-hand, taking away the stress that shouldn’t accompany a couple’s day. For a bride to be fully present, she needs someone reliable behind the scenes, someone who knows what she wants and how she wants it done.

Expectations

Budget is the first and biggest hurdle. Gregory encourages brides to know the limitations early on.

Weddings and services are expensive, and an event that requires a mix of so many services can skyrocket costs quickly. In attempt to bring the reality of an event into focus, Gregory asks the couple the top three haveto-haves. Brides bring the dream, Gregory provides the reality, and they meet somewhere in the middle.

Between showers, greeting out-of-town guests, the rehearsal, the rehearsal dinner, glam prep, a bride is busy. Gregory handles receiving vendors, organizing participants, putting out small fires, of which the bride remains unaware. He is the contact person for the event, and while Gregory does have a team, he promises, “you will always see my face.”

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Gregory to pick up trash and bottles and cut a cake for two hours, it’s his job. And he does it well.

Erin encourages brides to work with wedding planners primarily to relieve stress. So many brides try to do it all, and unfortunately, forget to enjoy their day. When choosing a planner, she suggests making sure brides know what they’re getting. Many wedding planners offer packages: day of, partial, and full packages. Often brides choose the cheaper package and then are disappointed in the amount of face time with the planner beforehand. They should make sure their expectations are realistic, and the wedding planner agrees to meet those expectations up front. Most misconceptions center around budget and time. Often one’s vision is grander than one’s funds. Erin helps brides select where to put money to make what matters count the most. She offers them practical solutions without boycotting a vision entirely. A well-planned event takes time; Erin suggests hiring a planner six to eight months before the event. She doesn’t become heavily involved in a wedding until about four months out. Reserving the wedding planner to save the date is essential.

Design & Style

Pam encourages the simple and traditional. Contemporary trends go out, and couples are left with pictures of an event that made sense at the time, but seems out of place years later. Less is always more, highlighting the significance of the commitment rather than the extravagance of the event. Some brides come in knowing exactly what they want, and some are more open-minded. Those who remained open to suggestions from the professionals were the most satisfied. Some trivial details seem important leading up to the event. Trust the wedding planner when she tells you it isn’t. The rustic wedding style, while current and popular, is overdone. Pam doesn’t understand trying to repurpose an old barn or even build one that looks like it’s falling apart. The old barn doors randomly placed in the middle of a field for a bride to walk through have been copied and essentially serve no purpose. Hay bales and wood planks and burlap are fitting for a couple with a country style, but many who mimic the trend are not country. Embrace who you are.

The most memorable weddings are the ones the fit the couple’s original style.

Gregory’s motto is: Keep it simple. Hire the best you can afford, and let the professionals show their talents. Gregory appreciates those brides who, after the initial decisions have been made, move out of his way, letting him do what they hired him to

do. Sometimes brides make changes without his knowledge, decisions that can affect the entire event. Brides should stay in contact with the planner, and trust the professional’s judgment. As far as style, Gregory is tired of eucalyptus. The filler greenery is so often overused and pricey. He suggests brides consider myrtle, fatsia, pittosporum, monstera, Johnson grass and stock are good fillers, along with Japanese yew. Many brides have copycat syndrome, and this can be avoided by giving the team creative freedom.

Erin admits most brides stick to trends, though she encourages them to think freely.

She considers the couple (often it is just the bride that meets with the wedding planner) or bride’s personality and taste. She helps her select ways to make the ceremony and reception different and special, customizing it to the couple, highlighting the uniqueness of their relationship. With more couples paying for their own weddings, budget is more of a concern. People should consider the time of day, as food and alcohol are major expenses.

Any event after 6:30 is considered formal, where guests expect dinner, a band or DJ and late-night festivities. Afternoon weddings are less costly. Venues can dominate a budget.

Choosing a place that is beautiful on its own and doesn’t require a lot of flowers reduces a budget significantly.

Inspiration

Most brides look for inspiration on Pinterest and by attending other weddings.

Erin encourages brides to show her what they like. Start a Pinterest board only you and the planner can see, pinning anything that makes you smile or incorporates your vision. Emulating elements from others’ weddings can still be part of making yours your own.

For style inspiration, Gregory recommends bridal fairs and simply asking recently married friends. They have been through the experience and have the benefit of hindsight. Gregory has a love/ hate relationship with Pinterest. While preconstructed bridal boards give him an idea of where the bride is headed, Pinterest often creates unattainable expectations. Wholesale florists are a good resource. Brides are able to see the colors and combinations, choose a palette. The florists know what flowers are available by season. And when in doubt,

take the advice of the planner; the planner has done this before and can prevent day-of upsets.

Erin has found most people are on their best behavior, recognizing the significance of the day for the couple. Rarely does Erin have to intervene, but she is willing. It’s best to encourage family members to put matters aside for the sake of the bride and her day.

Timeless Traditions Vendors

Some brides have family members or friends in the business. And while using them is fine, make sure they’re professionals.

Pam had a list of vendors with different price points. She had built a connection with these vendors, knowing how they worked and the quality of their services.

Gregory knows professionals for every budget. Trust his judgment. He wouldn’t recommend anything but the best, and the best vendors won’t let him down and risk future business. Most couples have one thing that they really want, and that remains the must-hire vendor. It takes 8-12 months to plan a good wedding, depending on the number of people expected. Venues can monopolize a budget. Gregory suggests off-nights.

Saturday evenings carry the highest price tag; consider a Saturday morning brunch. All the vendors are cheaper then as well. A mimosa bar or Bloody Mary bar is acceptable and a welcome change for most. Alternate venues are trendy. Libraries offer rooms for free or a small fee, and museums, parks and gardens are growing in popularity.

A word of caution, often Erin sees brides trying to save money by using their friends for professional services. Those friends often don’t know the process, and with so many feelings involved, brides hate to critique what is essentially a gift of service. In hindsight, brides wish they’d hired out those services instead of dealing with disappointment or emotional turmoil. Erin warns, if the service is not the friend’s professional job, hire someone else.

Family Matters

One of the biggest stress points for brides is family drama. Some relatives are uncomfortable, not on speaking terms, and this fear of the unknown plagues brides.

Popular in South Louisiana and Europe, Gregory appreciates cake pulls. For those unfamiliar, after the bride and groom cut the cake, the bridesmaids gather around and pull a ribbon. Little keepsakes, often sterling silver charms come out on satin ribbons. It’s a tradition Gregory wishes he saw more locally.

Pam prefers grooms don’t see their bride until she walks down the aisle. Something about having that moment in the actual moment is beautiful. The father/daughter dance is another one of her favorites. Many fathers appreciate those precious minutes with their little girl who is now a wife; it’s respectful and a pivotal moment for what is often a special relationship. Throwing the bouquet and the garter are also notable. It’s a fun release for the couple and their wedding parties after the reverence of the ceremony.

While Erin has seen wedding trends evolve, certain traditions remain staples of elegance and best convey a couple’s appreciation. Handwritten thank you notes admittedly take time, but so does attending an event, selecting a gift, and being supportive. It’s a small sacrifice to show those you love that they matter. Erin prefers sitdown dinners to buffet-style receptions, but again, this often depends on budget. Formal invitations with tissue, calligraphy and RSVPs raise the elegance of an event and alert attendants to the type of atmosphere expected at the ceremony.

Evolving Traditions

Erin loves when couples customize their weddings, making it more personal.

Traditional vows are being replaced with personalized words. Even a walk down the aisle now includes fathers and stepfathers, mothers, friends. Erin encourages her couples to choose songs meaningful to them; don’t be afraid to make it fun. Traditional wedding gowns, while still prevalent, are often foregone for shorter, less formal dresses in a variety of colors. Bridesmaids carry signs WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JUNE 2018 101

announcing the bride’s arrival and highlight different dress styles. Erin finds these to be positive changes, and she is encouraged by a bride’s willingness to experiment.

Pam welcomes some new styles in weddings as well, like when the bride changes from a formal ceremony gown into a party dress for the reception. It brings the party atmosphere, as most people take their cues from the bride. Pam also appreciates a shift from one location to another after the ceremony. A new place encourages the attendants to let loose a bit, and livens up the event. She likes when couples resist a local affair all together. Destination weddings are becoming more popular, and the idea of getting away from it all with the people you love is ideal.

Gregory insists, our parents’ weddings featured punch, butter mints and cake, more simple affairs. Gregory loves that marital events have become multi-day events. Some brides opt for welcome parties for out-oftown guests, rehearsal dinners, and then going-away brunches the day after the ceremony. Gregory appreciates this turn to the more formal, the more time dedicated to what is often, the biggest decision of people’s lives.

Favorite Moments

One of Pam’s favorite moments is between the ceremony and the reception when she takes the couple by themselves to catch their first few breaths as husband and wife. Witnessing that excitement and love so freshly cemented is an honor.

Though she rarely gets to see it, Erin’s favorite wedding moment is the ceremony itself. Erin gets the bride down the aisle and often must rush to the reception to make sure everything is in order for the guests’ arrival. But on the rare occasion she does get to watch, she loves seeing the love between the couple, how they look at each other.

Erin can see the vision personified in the moment, and it’s why she makes weddings her priority.

Cultural Influence

One of the last weddings Pam planned was Hindu, featuring a series of events, akin to the traditional one-week weddings in India. The festivities began with a nonIndian traditional rehearsal dinner followed

by Mehendi, henna for bride and guests. The next morning was the Ganesh puja, prayer, followed by the garba/raas, a Gujarati cultural dance that evening. The third day

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was a Hindu wedding ceremony followed by a traditional non-Indian reception at the country club. The bride wore a traditional sari to all of the ceremonies until the reception where she wore a white wedding dress.Pam and her crew usually wore coordinated black suits for weddings, but not for this one. Pam was given a red and gold sari, per tradition.

She laughs remembering how she stood out with her blond hair. After the event, the photographer sent her an 8X10 photo of her dressed up for the event. The keepsake is one of the reminders of her time as a wedding planner and the integral part she played in many couple’s special days.

One wedding Gregory planned hosted 300 people from Mexico City. The international family danced the traditional Mexican dance to the music from the hired mariachi band. A Jewish wedding featured the traditional chuppah and breaking of glass. A Pakistani ceremony involved a throne room and furniture shipped in from Pakistan. The men and women remained separated, with a prayer break. The bride and groom spent the day receiving gifts personally from the attendants, a personal touch often absent from traditional American weddings. Infusing one’s cultural heritage into a ceremony specializes an event for the couple and their guests. We are often limited to the same kind of ceremony here in the South; witnessing a little culture breaks up the monotony.

WEDDING VENDOR DIRECTORY

A Resource for Local Couples Getting Ready for Their Big Day

Wedding Attire: Eleven 26 Boutique 314 Trenton St., West Monroe, 318-737-7207 Carrying bridal party and formal dresses Fashion Post 4800 I-55, #9, Jackson, MS, 601-362-5171 Featuring Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom Dresses

Bakery: Social Bites 106 West Park Ave, Ruston, 318-251-2483 Wedding cakes and desserts designed to suit any style Thurman’s Food Factory 1608 Stubbs Ave., Monroe, 318-387-7848 Cakes, cupcakes, petit fours and more!

Magnolia Mariée 200 Main Street, Natchez, MS, 601-446-6400 Gowns and Accessories for brides and bridal party, plus tuxedo rental

Uptown Downtown 94 S. Vienna Street, Ruston, 318-255-6771 Offering custom and personalized cakes, cookies and desserts

Ron Alexander Clothiers for Men 1615 N. 18th Street, Monroe, 318-387-4409 Men’s suits, shoes and accessories

Photographer: Albritton Photography 406 N. Sixth St., West Monroe, 318-324-9118 Classic engagement portraits and wedding photography

Catering & Food: Chicken Salad Chick 1191 Lamy Lane, Suite 7 Monroe, LA, 318-322-4425 Catering for bridal showers and receptions Doe’s Eat Place 300 Washington St. Monroe, LA, 318-737-7169 Offers onsite and offsite catering Iron Cactus 428 DeSiard Street, Monroe, 318-654-8540 1304 US 80, Calhoun, 318-644-3663 Tex-Mex and Custom Catering, and patio available at downtown location Newk’s Eatery 2320 Tower Drive, Monroe, 318-387-8484 811 Splane Drive, West Monroe, 318-329-1922 301 Vienna, Ruston, 318-254-7010 Catering includes hand-crafted sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts Thurman’s Food Factory 1608 Stubbs Ave., Monroe, 318-387-7848 Offering Catering including classic hors d’oeuvres, dips, trays, meats and more Trio’s 2219 Forsythe Ave., Monroe, 318-387-3577 A cozy atmosphere available for small parties and events Uptown Downtown 94 S. Vienna Street, Ruston, 318-255-6771 Full service catering Waterfront Grill 5201 Desiard Street Monroe, LA , 318-345-0064 Cajun style seafood on the banks of the beautiful Bayou DeSiard

Madeline Grace Photography/ Black Label Boudoir Monroe, 318-884-0801 Creating a beautiful experience for engagement pictures, day of wedding festivities and boudoir sessions Venue: Bayou Landing 7805 Desiard Street, Monroe, 318-737-7061 The Venue with a View that offers food, bar and set up Mansion at Red Hill 66 Hwy 854, Delhi, 318-878-5155 Ideal venue for romantic outdoor wedding Park Manor 5868 Mer Rouge Rd, Bastrop, 318-239-2146 Beautiful and historic wedding and party venue in a plantation setting Vantage Rooftop Garden & Tower Banquet Room Monroe, 318-998-2860 These venues offer historical elegance with modern convenience in downtown Monroe West Monroe Convention Center 901 Ridge Ave., West Monroe, 318-396-5000 Northeast Louisiana’s Premier Banquet and Event Facility Jewelry: Baldwin’s Jewelry 102 W. Park Ave, Ruston, 318-255-1864 Beautiful collection of vintage and estate pieces Dupont Jewelers 1874 Forsythe Ave., Monroe, 318-855-4695 Handcrafted fine jewelry with exceptional quality

Nails, skin and beauty for the bride and her entire party

Hollis & Co. 1815 Avenue of America, Monroe 318-322-7794 Stunning collection of fine jewelry and antique pieces Marty and Mark’s Jewelry & Watch Repair 224 Trenton St., West Monroe Selection of fine jewelry Steve’s Jewelry 109 East Madison Ave, Bastrop, 318-281-4120 Quality Fine Jewelry and Engagement rings Event Planner: Everything Artsy Events 244 Jill Loop, Ruston, 318-548-4935 Complete wedding and event planning

Southern Sunless Tanning Ruston, 318-278-4796 Personalized and mobile spray tanning Spa Nouvelle/Derma MediQ 1705 Lamy Lane, Monroe, 318-807-1060 Full Service spa with services, procedures and products for the entire bridal party Spirits: Tonore’s Wine Cellar 801 Louisville Ave., Monroe, 318-325-4100 Providing beverages, cheese and wine for wedding events

Florals: Everything Artsy Events 244 Jill Loop, Ruston, 318-548-4935 Styling and Floral Services fine folks.

Northeast Louisiana, 318-538-8126 Florals, Weddings and Events In Fine Detail Monroe, 318-344-0083 Gregory Hudgins provides floral bouquets, centerpieces, event planning and more!

Moonbeam Fleurs Monroe, 281-684-0100 Flower design by Whitney Peters Petals and Pearls 4208 Sterlington Rd, Monroe, 318-605-3503 Full service florist Transportation: JPS Executive Transportation 5410 Operations Road, Monroe, 318-512-4218 Fleet includes full length Expeditions, limousines and Mercedes-Benz bus Beauty: Arlette 1603 N. 18th Street, Monroe, 318-410-0045 An Aveda concept salon with a holistic and organic approach to hair, skin and makeup Victoria Alexander West Monroe, 318-355-7599 Makeup artist available for onsite services Meka Bennett 318-210-3992 Hair and makeup artist Glow Body Sculpting 2314 Commons Court, Suite 6, Ruston 318-224-8884 Weight loss, skin tightening, cellulite reduction and detoxing Pampered & Polished 4075 Sterlington Rd., Suite 7, Monroe, 318-345-0850

Professional Laser Center 1900 N. 18th Street, Suite 209, Monroe 318-361-9066 Unique and effective services that beautify and heal the outer body

Washington Wine 300 Washington St, Monroe, 318-816-5067 Unique bottle shop with wide selection of wine, spirits and beers Laginappe: Governor’s Cigar and Pipe 1004 N. Third Street, Monroe, 318-654-7129 Offering cigar bar setup for special events Legends 32 Cigar and Vape Lounge 2000 East Kentucky Ave., Ruston Offering unique cigars, perfect for wedding party gifts Lewis’ Gifts 5807 Youree Drive, Shreveport, 318-868-6700 Bridal registry available for gifts and sundries Material Things 2305 Forsythe Ave., Monroe, 318-699-8964 A variety of special gifts perfect for the bridal showers The Muffin Tin 1904 Glenmar Ave., Monroe, 318-323-3753 The Trenton House 300 Trenton St. West Monroe, 318-388-4315 Registry available for china, crystal, kitchen accessories, decor and more Paper Market 1818 Forsythe Ave., Monroe, 318-537-9721 Specializing in paper and party supplies with custom stationery and invitations Paperglaze Calligraphy Ruston, 318-914-1116 Specializing in envelope addressing and unique hand lettering Sir Speedy 1285 Avenue of America, 318-323-2679 Custom printing including invitations, programs, cups and more

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Best Tips for Planning a Wedding

by Erin Sharplin Love | erinlove@panachebyerin.com

Planning a wedding comes with endless tasks, lists, decisions and deadlines, so it is no wonder that the process can quickly become overwhelming (trust me…I do this for a living)! The only way to plan your dream wedding, stay in budget and not lose your mind is to get organized!! My TOP tip is to get an organized wedding-planning system in place immediately, so when something unexpected pops up (and it will), you will be prepared.

So, with that said, here are my tips for organizing and planning a wedding: Set That Budget! Many brides and grooms are responsible for paying for their own weddings these days, so sticking to a budget is even more important than ever. So, STOP! Before any other decision is made, I recommend that you set a firm budget. Once this spending limit is in place, you then can move on to reserving dates, securing vendors, etc.

Create a Checklist. There are plenty of free printables on the internet that you can change and customize to fit your wedding, style and budget, so search for the perfect one.

(I hope the one I have included on the following page will be useful to you). Whichever one you choose, I suggest that you find a way to incorporate it into your daily planning ritual, so you are sure to complete tasks on time.

Start the Guest List. And YES! Do these items in THIS order!! The guest list should be one of the first things you do, especially if you plan on having a large, formal wedding. Every single one of my brides has underestimated the amount of time and attention the guest list will need.

The Top Three. I always ask that my bride and groom choose three things that they can’t picture their wedding festivities without. Knowing that, I will also know where to apply most of the budget. You should consider the same question. Perhaps you envision your day with a band, a large dinner and a stretch limo, for instance. Or maybe you envision a small gathering of close family and friends in a festive locale with live entertainment. Each of these scenarios would have your budget working in different ways.

Create a Wedding Website. With the world-wide-web accessible to everyone, it makes sense that the most convenient way to relay important information (and possibly get an actual RSVP) is via a website. Don’t worry; there are also websites that offer this service for free! Research!

Set Your Wedding Apart. How will your wedding be different from the rest? I am sure that you have, by now, attended dozens of weddings and have noticed how similar they all are. Why not break that cycle and figure out a way to set your wedding apart from the rest? Here are a few ideas that I have used in the past – Hire a sketch artist or caricaturist to create custom pictures of your guests. Write and recite your own special vows. Choose music that you love (For instance, I walked down the aisle to the theme song from Romeo and Juliet instead of the typical bridal chorus). Incorporate family traditions. Host a sitdown dinner instead of a typical buffet. The opportunities are endless!

Remember the reason. Above all, remember the reason you are planning a wedding in the first place. LOVE! You should enjoy the process and the day of this momentous occasion. Don’t let yourself get so stressed out that you are more bogged down in the details than you are focusing on the reason you are getting married. Pay attention to your loved ones during this time and be intentional about remembering this day for the rest of your life.

Say Thanks. Finally, don’t forget to thank the people that have helped you celebrate your marriage. No matter how big or small the gift, or how long they stayed at the reception, each person took time out to honor you and your significant other. Write them a proper thank-you note. That will definitely set you apart from the rest.

Congratulations on your recent engagement and upcoming wedding. This is truly a time for celebration!

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PL A N N E R WEDDING CHECKLIST

by Erin Sharplin Love

12 to 18 months before wedding:

q q

q q q

q

q q

q

Determine wedding date

Choose the style and formality of your wedding – formal, semi-formal, informal

Discuss wedding budget

Choose a color scheme and theme for your wedding Choose a venue for the

ceremony. Be sure to secure the time and date with a deposit, if required. Also, inquire as to whether there are mandatory classes.

Choose a venue for the reception. Be sure to secure the time and date with a deposit, if required.

Choose attendants – bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, etc.

Begin compiling a guest list. There will be five lists in the end – yours, his, his family’s, your family’s, and the combination of each.

Engagement parties usually happen during this period of time.

10 to 12 months before wedding:

q

q

q

Select your bridal gown

and veil. Order it as soon as possible. Some gowns take three to four months to come in and you need to factor in alteration time, as well

Select your bridesmaid gowns and accessories. Be sure to place all of the dress orders at the same time to guarantee the same dye lot.

Obtain the completed guest lists from fiancé and both families. Compile the final master list to determine the number of invitations.

q q q

q

Send save-the-date cards, if

desired.

Reserve a florist and begin deciding on flower arrangements.

Consult with your travel agent on honeymoon plans.

The earlier you plan, the less expensive it will be.

Make necessary arrangements for time off of work.

8 to 10 months before wedding:

q

q

q q

q q q

hoose a caterer. Be sure C to secure the date and time with a contract and a deposit.

Choose a wedding photographer. Again secure the date and time with a deposit and contract.

Schedule engagement photos.

Choose a wedding videographer, if desired.

Choose the musicians for the ceremony. Be sure to have a contract and make a deposit.

Choose musicians/DJ for reception. Secure with a contract and deposit.

Choose mothers gowns and accessories. Order immediately if not in stock.

Arrange for rental items needed such as tents, candelabras, arches, china, etc.

6 to 8 months before wedding:

q q q

Select your wedding cake.

Order wedding invitations, thank you cards, and personal stationary.

Select tuxedos for your groom, groomsmen, and ushers. Have the men go in for measurements to ensure

q

q q q q q

q

proper fit.

Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests.

Don’t forget to reserve a bridal suite for your wedding night, if desired.

Select a location for your rehearsal dinner and make reservations.

Schedule alterations and final fitting for your wedding gown.

Schedule fittings for bridesmaids and flower girls.

Make arrangements for your bridesmaids luncheon and other pre-wedding parties.

Arrange transportation from wedding venue, to reception venue, and to the final destination.

Set up your bridal registry.

4 to 6 months before wedding:

q q q

q

q

q q q

q q

q

2 to 4 months before wedding:

q q q q q q

Begin addressing invitations

and announcements. Hire a calligrapher, if desired.

Draw map to ceremony and reception – if needed.

Finalize the “order of service” of your wedding ceremony and order wedding programs

Confirm that the formal wear shop has received all measurements of your male attendants. Follow up immediately with those who have not been fitted.

Schedule appointment with hairdresser for bride, attendants, and mothers – if needed.

Complete trousseau shopping.

Begin attending parties in your honor.

Discuss final menu options and costs with your caterer.

Confirm arrival and

departure times

Order wedding favors and imprinted items such as napkins and attendant gifts.

Order/buy other necessary items (toasting glasses, cake topper, cake plate and serving pieces, guest book, ring bearer pillow, flower girl basket, aisle runner, etc.)

Set up trial runs for hair and makeup

Finalize honeymoon plans

and confirm reservations.

Send wedding invitations.

Send Thank you cards for gifts as they arrive.

Arrange to move belongings to new home – if needed.

Confirm reservations for out-of-town guests.

Take bridal portraits and then schedule to have your dress cleaned and pressed before wedding.

2 to 4 weeks before wedding:

q

q q q q

Apply for marriage license.

Be sure to call ahead for a list of required documents you’ll need.

Confirm final guest count to caterer.

Delegate last minute details and errands.

Have bachelor/bachelorette parties.

Begin packing for honeymoon.

The week of the wedding:

q

Host bridesmaid’s luncheon

q

Have a manicure, pedicure,

and give attendant’s gifts. and any other pampering services you wish.

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Chicken Salad Chick Now Open Catering Made Easy!

I’ve always been on a quest to find the perfect chicken salad. Funny thing is, everyone’s idea of the “perfect” chicken salad is completely different, although it seems we all agree on two key components: chicken and mayonnaise. After tasting every chicken salad I came across and realizing everyone’s idea of the perfect recipe is different, Chicken Salad Chick was born. This is a place all chicken salad lovers can find something they enjoy.

– Stacey Brown,

Chicken Salad Chick Founder

Chicken Salad Chick offers catering for any occasion and any size affair.* We will be happy to tailor our offerings to suit your needs.

We can prepare it for pick up, deliver to your location or even have our staff come set up your special event. When entertaining a large group, let Chicken Salad Chick take on a bit of the burden by offering a fresh delicious meal that is sure to make your guests appreciative of their host.

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CHOOSE A SERVING STYLE

You can choose whichever best fits your event needs. Will it be buffet style with Party Platters where guests can make their own selections, or box lunches for the most convenient grab-and-go selections?

CHOOSE YOUR CHICKS

Now is when it gets fun! Do you want to go with our Classic Carol, or surprise people with something spicy or sweet? Select a single flavor or get a combination of your favorites, or even add in some deli sandwiches and pimento cheese for those non-chicken salad lovers. If you need suggestions, we’re happy to share our most popular options with you.

DON’T FORGET YOUR FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Each of our side salads are made fresh daily and are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater at your party. You can choose between

Broccoli Salad, Grape Salad, Pasta Salad, Potato Chips and Fruit Salad. Can’t decide?

Get one of each!

NEED SOMETHING SWEET? A savvy host knows a meal just isn’t complete without a sweet ending. Take your pick from our freshly baked assorted cookies or our decadent strawberry dessert platter, and you’ll please everyone!

DON’T FORGET THE SWEET TEA! Do you have some southerners who wouldn’t dare attend a party without sweet tea? Well, don’t forget it then! We also have unsweet tea and lemonade available by the gallon and bottled water just in case!

*Set up and delivery only available for larger caterings.

HydraFacial™ Power Wash Your Skin

BY TIMOTHY J. MICKEL, MD, CERTIFIED, AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

E

XFOLIATION. EVERY WOMAN knows this is the removal of old dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. It makes your skin feel smooth and fresh and gives it a healthy glow. Regular exfoliation helps maintain healthy, younger looking skin. Most men (and a couple of my Lebanese aunts) exfoliate everyday with shaving cream and a razor, but the majority of women use gritty cleansers or medispa procedures like microdermabrasion to remove the dead cells.

HydraFacial™ is a new way to exfoliate using water instead of crystals. Consider microdermabrasion a sand blaster and HydraFacial™ a power washer – like microderm on steroids. HydraFacial™ is a multi-step procedure that includes not only cleansing and exfoliation, but also delivery of antioxidants and other essential nutrients to the skin once the dead cells are blasted away. We introduced HydraFacial™ to our area three years ago and are proud to offer the latest version of this technology to our patients.

Exfoliation and cleansing is the first step, followed by a gentle acid peel that loosens dirt and debris from pores with minimal irritation. The next step is painless automated extractions using vortex suction to clean out pores. Finally, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid are applied to the exposed, healthy new skin to nourish, hydrate and protect it.

So HydraFacial™ does way more than just exfoliate. It is a resurfacing procedure that thoroughly cares for your skin, providing cleansing, exfoliation, extraction and hydration while infusing antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid. Ranked above IPL, the HydraFacial™ is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that delivers instant results with no discomfort or downtime. It is soothing, moisturizing, non-irritating and immediately effective.

The HydraFacial™ is recommended for all skin types. It specifically targets common skin issues including sun damage, blackheads and whiteheads, enlarged pores, acne, brown spots, uneven skin tone and

early fine lines and wrinkles. The best part is it’s not just a quick-fix procedure. The HydraFacial™ actually improves the quality of your skin, helping to make it healthy for the long term – especially if it is done on a regular basis. We recommend every four to six weeks for most patients.

The treatments are done by my aesthetician, Natalie Green, who has over 18 years experience, involving nearly every conceivable spa treatment. Natalie did my treatment, and not only did my skin feel clean and smooth, but it felt even cleaner and smoother when she showed me all the sucked-out blackheads and debris that were in the suction canister.

So as the summer wears on and you sit at the ballpark feeling like you have a gallon of sunscreen and half the red dirt on the infield clogging your pores, consider treating yourself to an exfoliating, hydrating, deep cleaning, soothing HydraFacial™. And while you’re at it, consider microblading – a procedure to shape, contour and thicken your eyebrows – done by appointment only at our office by Amy Grassi.

Call Mickel Plastic Surgery at 388-2050 today. Your skin (and brows) will thank you for it.

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SaniCan Offers Unique SoftWash Technology Local Residents and Business Owners Recommend SaniCan

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N 2010, MATT RAINWATER HAD A CRAZY IDEA TO START a garbage can cleaning service. After figuring out a business plan, working out the kinks and securing the financing, SaniCan was officially born in February 2016. Little did they know, the backbone of their business would not be cleaning garbage cans and dumpster sites for long! In November 2016, SaniCan introduced a new style of exterior cleaning to the area known as a SoftWash.

Using a low-pressure application of a biodegradable, eco-friendly solution, customers no longer have to worry about the damage that comes along with typical high-pressure washing. SaniCan’s state of the art system allows them to customize solutions to clean any type of surface depending on finish and amount of build-up. With SaniCan’s SoftWash system, the job gets done safer, more effectively, and will last longer. Their objective is to be the area’s first premier exterior cleaning service by offering quality customer service and amazing results. Hundreds of residents and business owners all over Northeast Louisiana have been utilizing this service, and here’s what a few of them had to say:

We have had such a great experience with the SaniCan team!

They walked us through the entire process, answered all our questions and even tested a sample spot for us. They are knowledgeable, professional and always smiling on the job. We have been extremely pleased with our results and look forward to using them in the future when the need arises!

– Dana and Justin Tarver

When we saw our concrete around the pool turning black and our porches, eves and furniture covered in mildew and pollen, we knew to call Matt Rainwater with SaniCan. Matt came out and gave us a bid and set up the job. He even sent us email reminders!

Matt and his crew were very meticulous. They moved the outdoor furniture with care and put it all back. Their soft wash system was perfect for our aging paint. Now everything sparkles and looks brand new! Thanks, Matt!

– Lew Hubbard I would highly recommend SaniCan on any and all exterior cleaning projects. We have used them on commercial and residential projects. Matt and his professional staff always stayed within their estimates and delivered outstanding results! First class job and service.

– Trae Banks SaniCan has become the company to call, when it comes to washing your house, roof, fence and decks, as well as gutters, sidewalk and driveway cleaning. If you want to see what everyone is talking about, visit the SaniCan website, find them on Facebook or give Matt a call!

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Men's Health

June is Men’s Health Month

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UNE IS MEN’S HEALTH MONTH WHICH IS THE PERFECT time for men to take charge of their urologic health.

Approximately 50% of men in this country by the age of 60 suffer from lower urinary tract symptoms, or benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Symptoms tend to worsen over time and affect quality of life. Similarly, 50% of men over age forty have erectile dysfunction/low testosterone, which tends to worsen. BPH and erectile dysfunction are very treatable conditions, but too often men delay seeking treatment.

BPH, or enlarged prostate, often referred to as lower urinary tract symptoms, can include decreased force of stream, hesitancy, intermittent stream, post void dribbling, nocturia, urinary urgency and frequency. Severe cases can lead to urinary obstruction. These symptoms can often be alleviated. Patients are evaluated with questionnaires, voiding studies, and in some cases, the size of the prostate is assessed by ultrasound or direct vision with cystoscopy.

Treatment consists of oral medications for the prostate and/or bladder, with most patients seeing a significant improvement in symptoms/quality of life. In some patients, oral medications do not improve symptoms, and surgical intervention is required. Surgery is usually performed in an outpatient setting with quick recovery time and wonderful results.

Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer among American men. Prostate cancers usually grow slowly. Most men with prostate cancer are older than 65 years and do not die from the disease. Finding and treating prostate cancer before symptoms occur may improve your health or help you live longer.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem men experience as part of aging. Most men do not realize how many treatment options are available to treat ED. Following an office exam, treatment usually consists of oral medications such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra. If patients have poor response to oral medications, they can begin injections or urethral suppositories. If all medical forms fail, patients can receive a penile pump, or have a penile prosthesis placed. Prosthesis placement is performed in surgery, and satisfaction rates for patients and their significant other exceed 90%.

Low testosterone levels affect energy and sexual drive, and is also a common problem. Blood work evaluation to assess testosterone levels can make this an easily treated disorder with treatment consisting of injections, topical gels or insertion of testosterone pellets.

The majority of men will likely experience some urological conditions at some point in life. With proper evaluation and treatment, most men can expect significant improvements in quality of life.

Dr. Cage practices at the St. Francis Urology Clinic located at 312 Grammont Street, Suite 411, Monroe. Appointments may be made by calling (318) 966-6669.

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The Perfect Southern Wedding North Louisiana’s Premier Wedding Venue

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SOUTHERN PLANTATION WEDDING IS NO LONGER just a vision from your childhood dreams. Just up the road in Bastrop, LA, Park Manor is catering to brides and giving them the wedding they could never have imagined. On the property, one will find the plantation farmhouse, a bridal cottage, rolling hills of open pasture, rustic woodlands and a spacious pavilion. All of these features provide practical use and make for beautiful backdrops for photos.

There are many events that Park Manor caters to: • Weddings • Receptions • Family Reunions • Proms • Parties • Events • Photo Sessions

There is a certain allure to plantation homes. Whether its the home’s history or the grandeur of the house itself, Park Manor’s plantation farmhouse provides a perfect background for one’s vows or photos.

With its magnificent columns, balcony and grand doorway, it would be hard not to imagine getting married in this location.

The Bridal Cottage is truly a sight to behold. Luxury doesn’t even begin to describe the pure beauty that is held in this dream cottage.

Wispy lace and rustic, chic décor embellish the changing room, living area and bathroom. The cottage has a kitchen included and enough space to comfortably fit all the ladies in the bridal party, so you can all be together. A vintage, elegant bath tub rests beautifully in a private area and can also be used for photos.

Park Manor’s 2700 sq. ft. pavilion is ideal for creating memories with loved ones. There is room for dancing the night away, having food served to one’s guests, and tables and chairs where everyone can sit and visit. Curtains, fans, heaters and a fireplace are provided to accommodate every season. An updated sound system, HD television (perfect for slide-shows) and an open deck overlooking the field help create the perfect place for hosting a party.

These are just a few of the amenities that Park Manor provides guests. So call to book a tour of the property, and let Tammy Warner, their on-site event planner, help you plan your dream wedding.

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St. Francis Medical Center Offering Our Area the Latest in CT Technology, Including Cardiac Imaging

You just left your cardiologist’s office, and he has provided you with an order for a CT exam of your heart. The exam will be interpreted by one of our cardiac-trained radiologists and will aid the cardiologist in the treatment of any heart condition you may have.

To make CT exams as fast, safe and accurate as possible for patients, St. Francis Medical Center has installed two new CT systems - the Toshiba AquilionTM PRIME 160 at the Community Health Center on Tower Drive, and the Toshiba AquilionTM Prime 80 in the Emergency Room at its downtown campus. The technology offered by these two systems is the most advanced in Northeast Louisiana.

These state-of-the-art systems provide: • Quality – Detectors as small as 0.5 mm provide exquisite detail • Speed – Rapid imaging reduces motion artifact (or blur), even from a beating heart • Safety – Industry-leading radiation dose reduction • Comfort – Spacious openings reduce feelings of confinement • Access – 600 lb. capacity couch can accommodate almost anyone

A special feature of the new equipment is SURECardio™ technology, which automatically adjusts for those with irregular heartbeats. This, together with shortened exam time, significantly reduces artifact from cardiac motion and arrhythmias. Also, during cardiac CT exams, SURECardio helps to reduce the required amount of radiation to the lowest dose possible, while still obtaining diagnostic images.

“The speed of the Aquilion PRIME enables us to essentially ‘freeze’ a beating heart on our images. Ultimately, we can see the heart and even the coronary arteries without an invasive procedure,” explained Dr. Blake E. McGehee, Radiologist at St. Francis Medical Center.

A cardiac CT scan is a common test for both asymptomatic patients and those experiencing heart problems. It allows your doctor to explore the structures of the heart and the adjacent blood vessels without making any incisions. There are several variations to the exam: • Calcium scoring – This test measures any calcium build up in the arteries that supply the heart, which are called the coronary arteries.

From this measure, a risk assessment is made, and this may alter preventative medical strategies for you in the future. It is done with no IV dye.

• Coronary CT angiography (CTA) – This test is done with IV dye.

Images are obtained while the dye is in the coronary arteries to assess for blockages, among other things. In the past, this could only be done by invasive cardiac catheterization.

• Cardiac function – This is often done in conjunction with coronary CTA. How well the heart ‘pumps’ can be measured. The heart valves and wall motion can also be assessed.

Ask your doctor if you have a need for one of these tests.

When calling to schedule an imaging test or procedure, our friendly scheduling staff will help select the right imaging site based on your needs. Call St. Francis Scheduling at (318) 966-4700, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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Southern Bath & Kitchen Your Partner in Creating your Dream Home

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S WE SIMMER INTO THE HEAT OF SUMMER, IMAGINE what the typical day will consist of. The kids are out of school and the sun bearing down down outside. Take a moment.

Take a pause with us. Relax. Where do you spend most of your time in your home? The kitchen and bathroom. Making these rooms fantastic is a critical part of building your dream home. For those of us at Southern Bath & Kitchen, your home is a haven – a place where you can unwind, be yourself, and enjoy your surroundings.

Now, as you take a breather with us, envision what your dream bath or kitchen looks like. Imagine the curves of the bathtub and faucet. That delightful kitchen sink. Gleaming appliances. Helping you take that dream home, this idea, and making it a reality is what we do, every single day!

As you’re dreaming about what that bath or kitchen looks like, take a moment and browse through our website at southernbathandkitchen.com. You’ll find great inspiration on design, materials and more. And with details on each of our 40-plus locations in the Southeast right at your fingertips, you’ll be able to find a stunning showroom near you.

When it comes time to find that exact piece for the kitchen and bath, you’ll spend time with our superb showroom consultants.

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Schedule a one-on-one appointment to talk through your design project or remodel, and let our team find the products and brands that can help make that concept a reality.

While you’re with our knowledgeable showroom consultants, you’ll get to touch and feel the wide selection of products in stock.

Whether it’s a farmhouse sink, a free-standing tub, a touch-sensor kitchen faucet, steam units for your personal luxury bathroom, all the way down to knobs and hardware, Southern Bath & Kitchen has everything you need.

Whether you’re getting ready to break ground on a new home, knocking down walls in a remodel, or maybe just thinking about a future project, come visit us at Southern Bath & Kitchen. Our lowpressure, no-hassle team is ready to help you take that dream kitchen and make it a reality.

With fantastic personalized service and unparalleled industry expertise, Southern Bath and Kitchen is here to help. Give them a call at (318) 387-9184 or visit them online at southernbathandkitchen.com.

Thurman’s Food Factory Much More Than Dessert

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OR OVER 30 YEARS, THURMAN Dickey has created culinary dreams and delicious desserts and has become a staple on the catering scene in Northeast Louisiana.

While his work can be seen on display at a wedding on any given weekend in the Monroe, West Monroe and Ruston area, he has been known to travel to Texas, Mississippi and Arkansas to cater events. His shop on Stubbs Avenue in Monroe is known for the plate lunch specials Monday through Friday and for having casseroles and frozen dishes readily available to pick up for a sick friend, housewarming or just a Wednesday night supper.

However, Thurman and his staff are known for their cakes! Their classic tiered white bridal cake is a staple at many wedding receptions. They offer classic favorite flavors like white, chocolate and yellow, as well as specialty flavors like Italian Crème, Red Velvet, German Chocolate and Lemon Torte.

Their round wedding cakes can serve a small party of 15 to a large reception for 500. With half a decade of experience, Thurman’s has plenty of classic cakes to choose from but can create a design your bring in as well. They have the ability to do special designs with icing, spray designs and 3-D cakes. Round and sheet birthday cakes are available as well, whether you are looking to serve four or a hundred. And if you want to sample some of the delicious dessert but don’t have a party on the books, you can always swing by the shop and pick up a sheet cake off the table that Thurman’s has readily available. Often you can find sweet flavors like Neiman Marcus, Earthquake, Fudge Factory, Heavenly Hash and more. On a daily basis, there are fresh cookies, breads and pastries like cupcakes, pralines, petit fours to choose from. If you are looking for more of a savory treat, there are always those delicious cheese straws!

Thurman’s is much more than dessert.

With their extensive catering menu, they can take care of your wedding reception from beginning to end. They offer some Louisiana staples like boudin balls, shrimp dip, meat pies, marinated crab claws, jambalaya, oysters and even a roasted pig for an added flair. It isn’t a party without a dip and there are plenty to choose from at Thurman’s – crab, spinach artichoke, cheese, grits and corn, B.L.T, blackeye pea, spinach, vidala onion and seven layered Mexican dip. For the main course, you can choose from ham, beef tenderloin, ribs, brisket, turkey, Swedish meatballs, ribs, catfish and more. They also have traditional party platters with vegetables, cheeses, fruit, meat and sandwiches.

Whether you are looking for catering for your wedding, rehearsal dinner or shower, Thurman’s will make it is a memorable event.

There is no party too large or too small that Thurman’s can’t handle!

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English Garden. bouquet by Fine Folks

The fragrance of Old English garden roses in hues of apricot and blush interspersed with heady blossoms of full blown peonies in warm to light pink gives this bridal bouquet a touch of nostalgia. Fine Folks incorporates their signature eucalyptus foliage along with wax flowers, fern and stock for a horizontal bouquet that makes traditional feel modern.

bridal bouquets

These beautiful blooms are masterfully arranged into gorgeous wedding bouquets by North Louisiana’s best floral decorators. Photography by Kelly Moore Clark and model Rachel Dolecheck. Gowns from Eleven 26 Boutique. Nails by Pampered & Polished.

Bridal Gathering.

bouquet by Everything Artsy Events Celebrate the big day with a modern mass bouquet that gathers roses as you would friends. Roses in shades of peach, hot pink, pale pink are arranged with white stock amid fern fronds for an engaging floral art piece for the bride to carry.

White Wedding. bouquet by Petals and Pearls

Soft pink peonies, white Akita roses, fluffy white hydrangea blossoms, snow white lisianthus and the cool green of an echeveria are bound together with off-white antique lace and streamers. Nothing says “bride� more than a bouquet of soft whites with hints of blush accented with green.

Here Comes the Bride. bouquet by Moonbeam Fleurs

An elongated bouquet filled with blousy peonies in shades of hot pink, blush and white warrants a trip down the aisle, especially when the blooms are accented with apricot roses, Scottish thistle, poppy pods, spires of purple veronica, pink hypericum berries, eucalyptus and fern.

Purple Passion.

bouquet by In Fine Detail Leave it to Gregory Hudgins to elevate the bridal bouquet into a natural work of art. Fronds are arranged like a platter to hold a grouping of purple veronica spires and green poppy pods.

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The Wedding of Your Dreams The Mansion at Red Hill

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HE PERFECT LOCATION FOR THE MOST STUNNING wedding a girl could dream of. The Mansion at Red Hill is an elegant Bed and Breakfast that creates a romantic backdrop for a bride’s special day. The inviting beauty of the manicured acres, stocked pond, serene setting and elegant home are perfect to make your special occasion decadent and luxurious.

Quite and private, the Mansion can be found off I-20 in Northeast Louisiana, north of the town of Delhi. It is situated on 85 acres of lush grassland with groves of trees and a large pond, complete with fountain and pavilion. The Mansion has an executive suite, four bedrooms, an elevator for our guests needing assistance, two living rooms, a dining room, library, a grand staircase foyer, rear courtyard and an expansive front gallery. There are nearly an infinite amount of settings for bridals and wedding photos.

Nearby sites include the Poverty Point World Heritage Site and Black Bear Golf Club.

Included in the wedding package is the use of front porch, courtyard, grounds, the lower floor of the Mansion, 100 white chairs, 17 round tables, linen for the tables, clean up and set up for the event, 3 staff members, and the 1,000-sq. ft. Honeymoon

Suite. The Honeymoon Suite is available for the bride and her attendants to dress for the big event. The Mansion also provides a delicious breakfast for the Newlyweds the following day. Elegance and decadence are guaranteed in all aspects of The Mansion at Red Hill.

If weather is factor on your special day, the interior of The Mansion is spacious and can accommodate all guests. As soon as guests enter the front entrance way they will be greeted by a grand foyer with a large beautiful staircase and views to the back courtyard. The property is available at 8 a.m. the day of your wedding, giving ample time to be pampered and have pictures taken before guests arrive. The Mansion offers brides unparalleled customer service and strives to make each bride feel at peace and beautiful on their special day.

For more information, call 318.878.5155 and start planning your dream wedding today.

Photos courtesy of Kim Wilhite Photography, Unveiled Radiance Photography and LOWE & CO.

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Your Number One Dealer for Summer Fun B&L Marine Offers a Variety of Marine Products

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OR 45 YEARS, B&L MARINE HAS BEEN FAMILY-OWNED and operated and conveniently located in the Lakeshore area of Monroe. Bill and Hazel Buckley started the dealership in 1973. In 1985, their son in law, Pat McDonald came to the dealership and started working his way up. He purchased the dealership in 1997 from Bill and Hazel and continues to run it today with the help of his son Nick McDonald. The family is deeply rooted in the Lakeshore and Swartz area and continue to support the community, which has come to know B&L Marine as a local landmark. Bill and Hazel’s goal was to make B&L Marine the best choice and a one-stop dealership for your sales, service and on-the-water fun. We continue with that philosophy today with great customer service, the best products and the ability to handle any boating need that you may have.

Our Xpress and Crestliner boats are all aluminum, with no wood, all welded, and both offer a lifetime weld warranty on their boats. Xpress is a name that has been around for a long time and has a reputation for being the best high performance aluminum boat on the market. Xpress can be stacked up against any other tournament bass boat on the market and usually for less money with more durability.

Veranda Pontoons are a luxury pontoon and are a step above other pontoons on the market. Their patented aluminum interlocking deck

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allows the entire boat to be built with out wood. That means Veranda’s are built to last a lifetime. The Relax series is the most economical way to get on the water in style. They are available in twin toon and triple toon versions and multiple interior formats. The VP and Vertex series are the best of the best in luxury and durability. From the plush interior and cooled cup holders, to the touch screen dash and reliable Yamaha V-MAX SHO outboard, you can’t go wrong with a Veranda Pontoon.

Like a little adrenaline in your system? Then check out the new Moomba Tow-boat lineup. Moomba is the only true value brand in the inboard ski boat market, but don’t let that fool you. Moomba’s are consistently some of the best looking and well optioned ski boats on the water. Whether you enjoy wakeboarding, surfing, skiing or tubing, Moomba will get you on the water without breaking the budget.

We offer a variety of marine products, and our selection of high quality boats is second to none. B&L Marine prides itself on having the friendliest and most knowledgeable staff in Northeast Louisiana. It is our goal to help our customers find the perfect boat to fit their lifestyle, along with the right parts and accessories to truly keep you on the water!

Beauty Inside and Out at Fiesta Nutrition Center Get Ready for Your Big Day with Products from Fiesta

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REPARE FOR THE BIG DAY (weddings, family photos, special trip or new job) with products that can help you look and feel your best. Feeling and looking healthy is so important to making a good impression to others and can be easily recognized by having bright eyes, clean skin and energetic disposition.

Fiesta Nutrition Center offers unique products that can make reaching goals of weight loss, improved skin and hair, better digestion, enhanced energy and the ability to handle stress much easier.

A great way to have a clean slate health-wise is to complete a 2 week regimen like Michaels’s Naturopathic Program’s ULTIMATE DETOX AND CLEANSE. The nutrients and herbs in this kit support detoxification and cleansing of the bloodstream (improving skin) and intestinal tract while enhancing fat metabolism and

fluid balancing. An added bonus is that it may help decrease appetite. The dosage is one packet of tablets taken three times daily.

Easy!

Treat yourself to a great superfruit drink mix to add to a water bottle during the day to take the edge of the appetite. GARCINIA CAMBOGIA packets are a non-stimulant solution for energy and calming a sweet tooth. Fiesta has sold Garcinia for many years with good feedback and repeat sales.

BLUEBONNET NUTRITION’S BEAUTIFUL ALLY HAIR , SKIN AND NAILS FORMULA is specially formulated with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients like therapeutic strength biotin, collagen peptides, keratin and MSM that are necessary to achieve and maintain lustrous hair, skin and nails. Nutrient deficiencies brought on by poor diet, stress, medication and hormone imbalances typically respond

to supplementation of the right nutrients along with a clean diet.

The staff of Fiesta Nutrition Center prides itself on the training they have received to offer educated personal service to their customers. Fiesta is not a “trend follower.” Every product is selected on the merit of raw material used, process to manufacture and valid research reports.

This is yet another benefit of buying local.

Someone with the customer’s best interest is paying attention!

1211 North 18th St. Monroe, LA 71201 (318) 387-8446 Store Hours: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday

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HERE’S TOMMY

THE LIFE AND CAREER OF MONROE’S GREATEST HOST, BAYOU DESIARD COUNTRY CLUB’S TOMMY HARRIS article by MICHAEL DEVAULT and photography by BRAD ARENDER

CHANCES ARE THE NAME TOMMY HARRIS isn’t one you’ve heard before. But if you’ve ever attended a fundraiser, graduation party, bridal shower or business event at Bayou Desiard Country Club, you’ve seen his work.

For twenty years, Tommy has faithfully helped members and organizations plan perfect celebrations of all sizes at Bayou DeSiard. As catering and events coordinator, that’s his job. But Tommy’s efforts transcend the office he holds, and because of his dedication and devotion to making the best events, he’s become more than just someone who runs the ballroom.

“He’s in charge, and he still just makes you feel good,” says Dianne Cage, a member of Bayou DeSiard who’s hosted dozens of events at the country club. Whether it’s a Monroe Garden Club function or a bridesmaids luncheon, Dianne knows Tommy is someone she can turn to. “He’s like a member of the family who just makes things run smoothly.”

It’s an interesting job for a man who started out his career as a vault teller for Central Bank. While his path to Bayou DeSiard Country Club was hardly direct, all the steps seem to fit for a man who likes to serve.

Between overseeing his staff set for lunch and planning a couple of upcoming events, Tommy took a few minutes to visit with BayouLife Magazine and to share his thoughts on why the community loves him so much. It’s clear that the fondness people like Dianne show for him is mutual.

“This is family to me,” Tommy says, speaking with us on the exact date of his 20th anniversary at Bayou DeSiard. It gave him a few moments to pause, look back on his career, and be thankful to those who helped show him the way. “I never would have gotten to do the things I’ve done, if someone hadn’t taken the effort to teach me everything I had to learn.”

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That family he’s referring to began in downtown Monroe, near Central and Ouachita Banks, where he had begun his career. He took a job with the Cascade, and owners Bobby and Sophie Williamson “taught him everything” about fine dining.

From appropriate place settings to pouring wine, Tommy showed early promise in the world of serving at table. He worked for the Williamsons for several years before taking a new job at Highland Park Country Club. There, he drew the attention of management at the Tower Club in Monroe and accepted a position with them that he held until the Tower Club closed in 1999.

Remaining close to home made sense for Tommy. After all, his mother, brother and sister are all still Monrovians. A graduate of the Carroll High School Class of 1969, he also has friends here. But Tommy did want to visit relatives he had not seen in years. With his job coming to a close at the Tower Club, he had a chance. He decided then that it was time to do a little traveling, and he had made the decision to go to Ohio for a month or so to visit an aunt and relatives.

Afterwards, a banking job waited. That’s when Bill Wilson changed his course.

“He asked me what I was doing, and I told him I was getting ready to visit Ohio and then would return for a job at Chase Bank,” Tommy recalls. “He told me that I wasn’t doing that, that I was coming to Bayou DeSiard Country Club, and that was that. I’ve been here for 20 years.”

That’s twenty years of wedding receptions, midnight galas, garden parties and ladies’ teas. Two decades of bridal showers, baby showers and graduation dinners have passed.

He’s seen two, three, even four generations of members come into Bayou DeSiard. Along the way, he’s made sure to create experiences they’ll remember. Making things easy for his guests is part of what drives Tommy to never shy away from a task.

“I just do it all, everything.

Whatever they need done, I do it,” Tommy says. “My thing is to make people’s parties right, so they can be happy about them.”

For people like Dianne Cage, that’s an extra effort that doesn’t go unnoticed. She recalls numerous times when Tommy stepped up to help decorate the tables, set

I LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF MY JOB. WHEN I SEE A PERSON WALK IN THE DOOR HAPPY AND WALK OUT THE DOOR HAPPY, I KNOW I’VE GIVEN THEM WHAT THEY WANT.

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the flowers, or squeeze in an extra guest or three. No matter the challenge, Dianne says Tommy rises to it with a smile.

“He’s big, friendly and gets it done,” Dianne says. “I just love Tommy.”

Country club member Fred Huenefeld also expresses a fondness for Tommy. As a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, Huenefeld has worked alongside him to hold dozens of SAR events at Bayou DeSiard over the years.

Moreover, through the long-running English Speaking Union, Fred and his late wife, Jean, relied on Tommy to make ESU banquets and events truly something special. Fred notes Tommy always made sure to be there when they needed him, whether it was taking care of special requests for an event or just putting flags and bunting on the tables.

“Tommy is so accommodating in everything he does,” Fred says. “He’s always a delight, and he really cares about the people he’s working with, the event. He gets it right.”

Tommy demurs at the praise he’s received. Even though he’s been entertaining guests for more than 40 years, half of those at Bayou DeSiard, he’s still excited to get to work every day.

“I love every minute of it,” Tommy says. “When I see a person walk in the door happy and walk out the door happy, I know I’ve given them what they want. They’re having a good time, and everything is going right. That’s exactly what I give them – a seamless event, full of great times and good memories.”

Forty years is a long time at service, but Tommy shows no interest in slowing down any time soon. He’s still excited about the work he does, and there’s always another party on the horizon demanding his attention. That’s not to say he doesn’t foresee a day when his time as Monroe’s premier party planner comes to a close.

He has designs on doing some more traveling and perhaps returning to some of the other endeavors he enjoyed when he was younger. For instance, he once owned a flooring business. “There are some places I want to see, and I hope the good Lord lets me stay long enough to see them,” he says. “And I may still get off into some of the things I like to do on the side – parties, and stuff like that.”

For now, though, he’s still hard at work at Bayou DeSiard, making life on the bayou just a little more beautiful for the guests and members at the country club every day.

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Albritton Photography The Area's Leader in Professional Photography

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LBRITTON PHOTOGRAPHY IS A HOUSEHOLD NAME when it comes to classic, timeless and creative professional photography in Northeast Louisiana. Bill Albritton and Staci Albritton Mitchell have been photographing people for most of their lives. It is a true calling and career that they both chose and love. Dad and daughter worked together for many years until Bill retired about ten years ago. Staci continued with the business with her specialty always being portraits of children of all ages and families. About 4 years ago, Rhyan Emery Taylor joined Albritton Photography as a professional photographer. Her degree in Fine Arts and Photography has served her and Albritton Photography well. Rhyan brings another creative eye to the staff and her own style. She is a fantastic baby, children and high school senior photographer.

Albritton Photography offers clients a full service, professional photography studio. Our clients tell us they love the portrait programs we offer for maternity/newborn, baby’s first year and our album program for children of all ages. Expecting parents can choose to do a combo maternity and newborn album or join Footsteps and let that be the beginning of their album. We do all types of maternity photos, including in studio and on location.

Newborns are best photographed under 10 days of age. You can visit our studio, or we can come to your home. Albritton Photography does our best to make it easy for our clients to get quality professional photography. Once Upon a Lifetime and Footsteps are our longest standing programs. Once Upon a Lifetime is the capture of the baby’s first year of life at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 1 year. The parent receives a framed 4 image panel at the end of the one year as a gift. Footsteps is an album program that can start at any age and go to age 12. Some people start at maternity, some start at 3 months and some start older. It is up to the parents.

Again, we offer the sessions in our studio, in our outdoor garden, at our larger outdoor studio or your home or location of choice. We have children 21 years old still in the Footsteps program. It’s a great way to have a chronological album of your child’s life. Four Seasons is our newest program designed to give the client 4 sessions in a one-year period in a great, custom album.

Visit our studio and you will see why Albritton Photography continues to be the leader in professional photography in the Northeast Louisiana area. We are a full-service studio from beginning to end with our professionally trained staff and artists, quality products and great service.

Call Albritton Photography at 324-9118 for more information or visit us at 406 North 6th Street in West Monroe. We look forward to seeing you smile!

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What We're Cooking Ceviche-Marinated and Grilled Louisiana Shrimp Tacos

The perfect, easy summer seafood dish.

Cook/Prep Time: 25 minutes INGREDIENTS • 2 4 each - Jumbo Louisiana Shrimp, 21-25 count, peeled and deveined • ¼ cup - Lime juice • ¼ cup - Cilantro, chopped • 2 cups - Tomato juice • 1 cup - Red onion, chopped • 1 Tbsp. - Ancho chili powder • 8 Corn tortillas • ½ lb. - Red cabbage, shredded • ¼ cup - Tomato salsa • ¼ cup - Low-fat sour cream DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat grill or grill pan to high heat.

2. M ix lime juice, cilantro, tomato juice, onion and chili powder in a bowl. When fully mixed, add in the peeled and deveined Louisiana Shrimp, cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

3. R emove shrimp from marinade and place them on the hot grill.

Cook until the shrimp are done, 4-6 minutes. Remove shrimp from the grill and place them aside.

4. L ay the tortillas, a few at a time, over the hot grill until warm, 2030 seconds. Stack on top of each other on a plate.

5. O n each tortilla, place 3 shrimp, shredded cabbage, salsa and sour cream. Fold in half.

More than just miles separate domestic seafood from the imports.

Before your next trip to a grocery store, fish counter or restaurant, learn a little about what sets domestic seafood apart. For more information and where to buy, visit LouisianaSeafood.com

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A Shocking Transformation Introducing Shockwave Therapy to Reduce Cellulite

BY JUDY WAGONER

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ELLULITE IS A FRUSTRATING AND discouraging problem for millions of women. It targets young and old, large and thin. It’s typically most pronounced around the hips, buttocks, arms or legs of women.

We have all tried various creams, potions, exercise regimens and fad diets which simply don’t work. That’s because cellulite is not a fat problem — it’s a skin problem. Cellulite is made up of fat cells that reside within the skin. They can’t be burned as fuel, so dieting and exercise won’t eliminate them. Once we get cellulite, we feel cursed, because it simply gets worse over time. I have been asked over and over why cellulite is so difficult to treat. There are many influential factors, such as genetics, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, imbalanced hormone levels and weight. All of these factors cause fat deposits deep below the skin to be strangulated by fibrous connective tissue, called “septae,” thereby making circulation

difficult and trapping fluids. Eventually, this connective tissue scleroses (hardens) leading to the dreaded dimpling and that orange peel appearance.

At Professional Laser Center, we are committed to obtaining the most advanced technologies in treating fat and cellulite.

Acoustic Wave Therapy is a painless, noninvasive treatment to drastically and quickly improve the appearance of cellulite. It uses ultrasound waves to disrupt the scar tissue and connective tissue, improving circulation and initiating collagen production for thicker, more elastic skin. A total of 6 to 8 treatments, twice a week for three to four weeks is recommended.

Up to three areas of the body can be treated at a time. Each session lasts about a half hour.

Shockwave Therapy also has a prolonged effect. The results are stored at least one year, which means no expensive maintenance treatments. As photos show on our website,

www.professionallaser.com, the results only get better over the next three to 12 months.

The main difference between shockwave therapy and other anti-cellulite programs is that it not only eliminates cellulite, but also makes the skin healthier. Activation of fibroblast cells by acoustic wave, stimulates the growth of collagen fibers, which allows the body to tighten sagging skin and fight its texture and laxity in a very short time. At the end of the course, as well as three months later, you will notice a real effect. The skin is not only tightened, but becomes more dense and elastic.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy can also be used on the face, neck and chin to promote the formation of new collagen and elastin. The result is noticeable immediately after the procedure and continues to improve over the next seven to ten months. The recommended number of treatments is seven, one per week. This method is in demand because of its unique capabilities, which in some cases, are superior to surgery. The main goal of shockwave therapy is rejuvenation of tissues, thus eliminating the need for surgery, medications and side effects.

Now you can have the confidence to wear your shorts, skirts and swimsuits again this and summer. Call 318-361-9066 to schedule your appointment.

A SHOCKING NEW PROTOCOL TO TREAT

Cellulite E X TRACORPOREAL SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

1900 N. 18th St., Ste. 209, in Monroe • 318.361.9066 • www.professionallaser.com 130 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Success Based on a Foundation of Tradition

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OR OVER 60 YEARS, JESUS THE GOOD Shepherd School has remained successful and thriving, all while holding on to the traditions that shaped it into the school it is today. If you ask principal, Mrs. Lisa Patrick, a question about why something is the way it is at JGS, more often than not she will explain that this is the way things were handled back in the beginning, when the Sisters were still running the school. Many may say those old ideals are a thing of the past; however, holding true to our Catholic teachings, we thoroughly believe that tradition is something to be held on to and cherished.

Many Catholics believe whole heartedly in sacred tradition, which is defined as the oral teaching of Jesus Christ handed down to his apostles, who in turn handed it down to their disciples, and then on to the next generation and then finally to us. History shows us that tradition plays a big role in successful events, businesses, families, militaries, churches and schools. If something works, why change it!

We pride ourselves on the many traditions we

have at JGS, from All Saints Day, to weekly school Mass, to one of our recently completed traditions, May Crowning (The annual crowning of the Blessed Mother Mary). The students bring flowers to school, usually cut from their own yards, and as they process to Mass they place their flowers at the feet of Mary out of respect, humility and love for the Blessed Mother. It is a beautiful sight to behold, and the students find such delight in this simple and humble exercise of faith.

Yet another tradition was celebrated on May 22nd when the JGS 6th grade wrapped the May Pole, a symbol of passage from JGS to middle school. The May Poles, adorned with flowers and ribbons, were wrapped on the JGS soccer field, while the entire student body, parents and loved ones looked on. The 6th grade and Kindergarten graduates were recognized the following day at graduation Mass, followed by receptions and awards for each class. The end of the school year is always bittersweet, as we watch our 6th grade students proceed on to middle school and our

Kindergarteners move up to “big school.�

However, we know that with each new school year comes the possibility of even more potential, creativity and learning all while holding on to the traditions and faith that make us strong and successful as a school. We pray that all have a blessed and safe summer!

See you in August.

Congratulations to our Sixth Grade Graduates: Garrett Ajlani, William Brodtman, Will Brown, Colton Cooper, Sebastian Criswell, Johnathan Ditta, Taylor Ditta, Eli Ducote, William Estis, Joleigh Faulk, Isaac Gremillion, Nelson Hajj, Mary Margaret Hayden, Ella Hays, Cody Jordan, Addy Leaumont, Sutton Lewis, Anna Lowery, Mallory Mardis, Julia Marsala, Millicent Mascagni, Brennan McCarthy, Ella McDuffie, Gwen McKoin, Scotty McMullen, Lillian Morstead, Sam Neitz, Aaron Parker, Alex Peters, Lily Pham, Charlize Richardson, Emory Rightsell, Claire Sawyer, Garrett Taylor, Sophia Trejo, Margaret Watson, Hannah Williams and Walker Woods.

The JGS Used Uniform Sale is scheduled for Monday, July 30th at the JGS School library. Open enrollment is in progress at JGS. Families interested in finding out more about Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School are encouraged to contact the school office directly at 318-325-8569 to schedule a tour with our principal, Mrs. Lisa Patrick, or visit our website, www.jesusgoodshepherd.org. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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When you think of a destination wedding and/or reception it normally is an exotic warm locale or a Tuscan Italian village. Why not make these destinations a reality in your own backyard?

Cathi French Roberts & Lori French

Destination Wedding: Home I

f you do bravely choose to host an “at home” celebration, what a blessing for your future generations to enjoy the same! Our beautiful friend, Susie Husted, has this tradition in her home. Every wedding that has taken place there has a thread of symbolism while each maintains a special and unique feel. To see all the ways these weddings relate to each another, but still have niche differences, is spectacular.

You will need artistic visionaries that can create floral magic and also detailed planning like locals Gregory Hudgins, Elizabeth Prine or Chris Allums. A wedding is a very layered process and artists such as these can take your vision and make it a reality. It is worthy of mentioning that grand does not have to be expensive, but lovely does require a budget.

If planning at home, along with wedding story boards and Pinterest indeas, logistics need to be planned well in advance. Is the kitchen up to par for catering or will a catering service need to set up a cook trailer? Is there adequate parking? Is the plumbing able to accommodate 175 plus guests? Better yet, is there room for the glam port-o-potties that many are using today. What about a surface flat enough to construct a dance floor and large tent? Do you need to add extra generators for electricity?

Each of Susie’s daughters has ended their special night with a beautiful sendoff of sparklers and fireworks.

Outdoor arrangements throughout generations of wedding ceremonies at the Husted home The beautiful landscape of the Husted’s yard has been the perfect backdrop for hundreds of gorgeous photos

FOR YOUR OWN FRENCH TWIST CONSULTATION, CALL CATHI AND LORI AT 318-355-3041 132 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

Your everyday furniture will probably need to go into storage to accommodate guests, so reserve that storage pod. Think about removing unnecessary objects or antiques that might get knocked over or damaged. It is also a good idea to move a certain living room or den set-up outside under one of your tents for an extra conversation area. Is there room for to move inside in case of last minute weather issues? Planning in advance will also allow catering plenty of room for their set-ups and help eliminate “too close for comfort” spaces in your home.

The details of the day will fall into place just as if you had rented a wedding facility.

However, it does takes a little more logistical planning for your home as this is not its normal professional function. In the end, your destination home wedding can be magical. It can provide an intimacy you can never achieve at a wedding hall or hotel banquet room. The traditions of fireworks and sparklers, duplicated wedding cakes or an heirloom floral horn holder that each bride and groom uses will create beautiful treasured moments.

Be bold and plan well - it is a moment of love and family that cannot be duplicated!

Duplicated groom’s cakes, along with an heirloom floral horn holder adds a touch of heritage to the bride and groom’s special day.

The brick patio of the Husted home is original to the landscape and is still there today.

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Ceremony on the Bayou

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JENNIFER LEE GIBSON AND JAMES HOUSTON CALLENDER, JR. UNITED IN MARRIAGE AT BAYOU LANDING

ennifer Lee Gibson and James Houston Callender, Jr. were united in marriage on June 24, 2017 at the beautiful Bayou Landing in Monroe. The bride is the daughter of the late Lee Gibson and Sharon Cleveland of Rayville, LA. The groom is the son of James Houston Callender, Sr. and Pam Sullivan of Olla, LA. Reverend John Cleveland, stepfather of the bride, officiated the ceremony.

The perfect weekend was kicked off with several close friends and family by celebrating James and Jennifer with a rehearsal dinner.

The rehearsal dinner was a perfect segway into what was sure to be a weekend to remember for years to come.

The two were married in front of the beautiful, picturesque windows overlooking the bayou. The sun setting on the bayou served as the perfect backdrop for the ceremony. Elegant flowers, arranged

by Nikki Maxwell of Rayville, were used to accentuate the already beautiful venue. The bride carried a bouquet arranged with peonies, hydrangeas and roses adorned with a photo of her late father.

The bride was given away by her mother, Sharon Cleveland.

She was attended by her sister, Lindsey Shepherd, and friends, Maddie Comeaux, Angel Darden and Chelsy Smith. The groom was 134 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

accompanied by his friends, Daniel Comeaux, Josh Hobson, Clinton Patrick and Jamin Rankin. Kynslee Shepherd, niece of the bride, served as the flower girl, and Rhett Patrick served as the ring bearer.

The reception was held at and catered by Bayou Landing. The reception took place on the upper level of the venue where the bride and groom shared their first dance. The couple danced to “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, which was also the song the bride’s parents danced to on their wedding night. The wedding cake and Louisiana Tech themed groom’s cake were provided by Sonya Dozier of Mangham, LA. Guests danced the night away with music provided by Dixieland DJ. The spectacular photographs were taken by Angela Groce of Unveiled Radiance. Nick Perpich was the videographer of the event. Capping off the perfect evening was a sparkler sendoff for the couple. Bayou Landing helped create a celebration which exceeded the couple’s expectations and turned their special day into a fairy tale.

James and Jennifer were blessed by amazing friends and family, who came to support them as they embarked on this journey together.

Following the wedding, the couple honeymooned in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The couple resides in West Monroe.

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B AYOUKID Z

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS Setting an Example for Our Kids article by Cindy G. Foust

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appy June, readers, and for those of you keeping up out there, we are at the halfway mark of 2018. Can you say 221 shopping days until Christmas? Good Goobley Woobley…I’m just trying to figure out which bikini I’m taking to the beach. I don’t have time to be worried about what I’m going to ask for Christmas! I have got to make some time to get to the mall, because I also have some graduates to shop for while I’m there. Oh, and a few weddings, too.

It is that time of year, isn’t it… lovely brides and grooms joining their hands in marriage? Gosh, I remember all those years ago when Scott stalked me at our 10-year class reunion and begged me to go on a date, and then asked me to marry him. Even though it’s been nearly 23 years, I still remember what an exciting time it was.

When Cassie emailed me that this month’s issue was about weddings, I could hardly wait to get to my keyboard and crank out my column. That’s kind of a lie, I mean, what in the world can I contribute about weddings? Other than give you a recap of my own, but what kind of story would that be?

There was this one time, though, that I went to my co-worker’s wedding in Shreveport, and I didn’t tell my parents where I was going. It wouldn’t have been that big of a deal, except that when I was sitting in the smack dab middle of this big church, with a packed to capacity audience, I noticed that someone on the bridal decorating team thought it would be a good idea to put some tulle-like chiffon material under the roughly 40-50 candelabras to catch the wax. Wait.

Isn’t that flammable? I kind of thought I might be at the wrong church, like maybe it was a royal wedding or something, because in addition to the 2,000-3,000 candles, they also had like 22 bridesmaids.

The only thing that did was give me plenty of time to sit and stare at those candelabras and wonder just how long it would take for the hot wax to spill over and hit that chiffon. I’ll tell you how long it

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took – about 21 bridesmaids long, and then it was like simultaneous combustion and I can tell you, the only thing I remember thinking was I was going to be trampled to death, right before I burned up to death, and the only thing they would be able to identify on me was the red dress I was wearing. And, my parents didn’t even know where I was at…it’s not like I could text them my good-byes because we didn’t have cell phones during the dark ages.

So, you are probably wondering if the fire department came, and the answer to that would be no, several of the groomsmen were able to run to the fellowship hall, the toilet, or somewhere and get enough water to throw on the fires (yes, there were multiple ones by this point.) After the flames were extinguished, we finally got the bride down the aisle. But I guess the excitement of nearly burning the church down got to one of the groomsman (either that or smoke inhalation) and he fainted right about the time the bride’s father gave her to the groom. If I’m the bride at this point, I think I would have said, “Peace Out” and looked for another husband. But that’s just me. Moral of that story is don’t go to a wedding without telling someone where you are, just in case the church burns down.

So what’s up for June, after that rather anti-climatic story?

Weddings? Decorations you don’t want to use in a wedding?

How to put out a fire using water from the toilet bowl?

No… none of that really makes for a good column in my opinion, but what did strike my fancy (to quote Bitsy) when I was researching for my column, is the fact that June 15th is World Giving Day and well, I was kind of thinking about morphing from a 22-member bridal party to paying it forward. I’m just kind of talented that way, in case you’re wondering. Anyone ever stop at the red light at the 18th Street I-20 overpass extension (for crying out loud readers, I am no Daniel Boone.) If you have, then you certainly have noticed a small gazebo, beautifully decorated, and a nice gentleman who stands out there,

rain, shine, sleet or snow, and plays his saxophone for busy travelers.

Now, you don’t really get the full effect of his talent unless you roll down your window and let the music circulate through your car. My car load of dancers love on Wednesday evenings when we head out to dance and he’s standing under his gazebo, playing to his heart’s content, like he’s on the stage at Carnegie Hall. What a gift. I like to think of all of the motorists he has touched by just standing out there, playing his saxophone for our listening pleasure.

It’s one of the most unique and lovely forms of Paying it Forward…using your talents to gift others. I think it’s important for our children to be witness to these kinds of random acts of kindness. Don’t you? In a world full of social media, selfies and a lot emphasis on everything being about you, isn’t it grand when our kids can see someone doing something from just the goodness of their hearts?

As parents, I think it is also our responsibility to show our kids what it’s like to help someone or do something that is totally unexpected, and perhaps even random. Recently, one of my best friends was ahead of me in line at a fast food restaurant and she unexpectedly bought our food (I was actually in line picking up lunch for my son, so she probably had to go in and wash dishes to pay my bill), but it’s simple things like that can make someone’s day, especially if it’s a total stranger in line behind you. I challenge you parents, sometime this week, to keep the thoughts of this column on your mind (the visual of me in

a bikini is not what I’m talking about, obviously) and demonstrate a random act of kindness in front of your children. Let them see, and feel the pleasure of doing something that is completely unexpected for someone. It doesn’t have to be feeding the homeless (although that would be very inspiring), but perhaps you could drop food off to someone who is aging or sick.

Who knows, you may start a wave of random acts when your kids tell their friends. I write a lot about demonstrating kindness in this column, because it is something I feel passionate about, and I hope in some small way I’ve inspired you readers, to make it a priority in your home, in your lives, as well.

Now, get to having a great summer, school is out and the feeling is right for dancing in the streets. And by the way, I waited until the very end of my column, before I qualified that you might see me in a lot of things, hip hop light-up shoes, a 70’s wig that makes me look like Mrs. Roper, but a bikini will not be one of them. Now, you can enjoy the rest of your summer knowing that Cindy Foust’s most important random act of kindness is NOT wearing a bikini. Your welcome, readers, and have a great summer.

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So This Is Love

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JOSEPHINE ALIZABETH COLLINS AND UGAR BARIS MARRIED IN A GARDEN CEREMONY

osephine Alizabeth Collins of Winnsboro, Louisiana, and Ugur Baris of Istanbul, Turkey, met four years ago after talking briefly online. Josephine remembers nervously waiting to meet the most handsome man she’d ever seen. Ugur recounts Josephine floated as she walked. Both left their first date smitten and have been inseparable ever since. The proposal came on the couple’s Christmas trip to New York City. Ugur had visited six years prior and fell in love with one spot in Brooklyn that showcased the entire NYC skyline. He took Josephine and on one knee, asked her to spend forever with him. Through whispered breaths, she accepted, twice.

On April 28, 2018, the couple had their fantasy wedding at Creekwood Gardens in Simsboro, Louisiana, forty acres of lush, botanical backdrops and overhanging 138 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

canopies of trees and wooden bridges and whimsical views.

Ugur’s family flew in the Saturday before the ceremony and incorporated traditional Turkish elements to the festivities. Thursday night featured the Kina Gecesi, or blessing of the bride, where friends and family came to celebrate and show solidarity with the new bride by placing henna in their palms. The morning of the wedding, the fetching of the bride took place, a celebration processional where the groom’s family and friends ask for his bride at her family’s home in Crowville. The couple got ready for the ceremony in rooms side by side. The bride’s longtime friend, Khadi Gwin did the bridal party’s hair and makeup. It took her entire bridal party to get Josephine into the embroidered blush and gold princess wedding dress. She immediately fell in love with the ball gown that looked like

it belonged outdoors. Ugur wore his own grey custom-tailored suit under an arch of flowers waiting for his bride.

Once again, Josephine floated across the wooden bridge to “So This Is Love” from Cinderella.

As she approached her groom, the sunlight danced on her shoulders. They exchanged handwritten vows, promising to love one another and support each other as individuals. They performed a handbinding ceremony, a European tradition where they joined hands and “tied the knot” with two twisting cords, symbolizing the binding of their individual lives. After being announced husband and wife, Ugur kissed his bride, and the couple each took a celebratory shot to start the party.

The guests made their way to a covered bridge to cross still water to the reception. The bride’s cousins, Gayle McKeithan and Melanie Halvorsen from Virginia had draped the tables in rose-petal pink fabric with mounds of roses, peonies and tulips as centerpieces. Vintage gold frames displayed Josephine’s bridal portraits taken throughout the garden, along with polaroids of the couple as children. Guests feasted on a taco bar catered by Avocado’s featuring chicken and steak fajitas and the bride’s favorite, carnitas.

Melissa Phillips with Baked to Create made the four-layer almond bridal cake with lemon cream cheese and fresh strawberries and cream cheese fillings. The groom’s cake was fashioned into a car-cleaning kit, Ugur’s favorite pastime, and was a chocolate coffee cake with Nutella filling and chocolate ganache icing.

The couple’s first dance was to Say You Won’t Let Go by James Author. The DJ, Kellie Shuff, kept the music spinning, and the guests intermingled with the couple on the dance floor. A traditional Turkish dance had friends tossing money at the couple, after which the maid of honor, best man and bride’s father gave tear-filled toasts to the couple. Guests posed in the photo booth and brought home pictures with the hashtag #becomingbaris. The couple dashed through a throng of people tossing dried lavender. The magical pictures of the experience were shot by Lori Michelle Photography.

Mr. and Mrs. Baris will honeymoon in Punta Cana at the end of the month and will reside in Sterlington, LA. Josephine teaches 7th grade Social Studies at Riser Middle School, and Ugur is a Sales Operations Manager at CenturyLink.

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Morehouse May Madness

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May 5th this year was an exciting day for downtown Bastrop. The streets were closed off around the courthouse for the Second Annual Morehouse May Madness Street Festival. There were many exciting things going on that day, including a quilt show, a classic car exhibit, vendors with many unique items, delicious food, a kid zone area, a plant sale and a day full of music. Some new additions to the event included: an antique tractor show, an art exhibit and a motorcycle exhibit. Plans are already being made for an even bigger event for next year’s street festival.

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On the BayouScene 1P atrick Murray, Carla Williams, Taylor Laborde and Haley Kelley 2 Doug and Paula Herring 3 Rick and Kathy Nelson 4A manda Sharp, Mira Alston, Stephanie Sharp, Grace Hogan and Cicely Hogan 5 Larry Wilson, Betty Wilson and Ann Ryland 6 Nell Bennett 7H eather Ford and Candace Stanley 8 Matt Spikes, Abbi Spikes and Angela Jaggers 9 Madeline George and Miranda Gregory 10 Shelby Hall and Mykayla Bell 11 Jessica Stutts, Sandra Merritt and Gentry Stutts 12 K evin Crim, Dylan Breshears, Anna, Tim and Ada Pitts 13 D ebbie McLeod, Donna Townsend, Joy Hogan and Clarence Hogan 14 Caraline Simmons and Grace Johnson 15 Seth and Suzonne Clampit 16 P am Duncan and Thomas Crowder 17 Steven and Lesa Wade 18 Molly Fulmer and Alyssa Cheek

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BAYOU BUZZWORTHY THE GOVERNORS On May 8th, Monroe’s very own Friday Ellis “The Governor” met the actual Governor of Louisiana, Governor John Bel Edwards. The two had an opportunity to discuss the cigar industry’s politics at the Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge.

After the meeting, they had a chance to pose for a photo with Gov. Edwards holding one of Friday’s cigars.

WOODSTOCK CELEBRATES 7 YEARS

In May, Woodstock Furniture Revival celebrated their 7th anniversary since opening their shop on Third Street in Monroe’s Garden District. Owned

by Chelsie Summerville, the shop has become known as the place to shop for unique furniture, décor, lighting, home accessories and gifts. Recently, Woodstock added baby items from Little Unicorn, MilkBarn, Blabla and more. Chelsie and her family have become such a part of our community, often donating to silent auctions and fundraisers. We are so thankful they are here and wish them many more years of success!

RUSTON SPORTS COMPLEX

A groundbreaking ceremony for Ruston’s new sports complex was held on May 3rd. The new complex will include: 8 youth baseball fields, 3 t-ball fields, 8 girl’s softball fields, 3 adult softball fields, 9 tennis courts, 3 soccer/football fields, a high school baseball field, cross country course, walking trails and a six-acre lake! The new complex is scheduled to be complete in January 2019.

HEMLINE ANNIVERSARY

Leslie and Joshua Culp celebrated their five years of business with their local boutique, Hemline Monroe.

They held a weeklong celebration with a special sale and giveaways. In the years since their opening, Hemline has always been supportive of causes such as St. Francis Foundation, Chennault Aviation Museum, American Red Cross and more. We can always depend on them to have the latest trends and support our community at the same time!

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CPS Pools and Spas

Family-Owned and Operated for Over Six Decades

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PS POOLS AND SPAS OPENED IT’S DOORS IN 1957 as a family business, specializing as a commercial gunite pool builder. The market for Federal and State funded commercial pool projects began to taper off, and the company then diversified into the residential pool business.

Today, CPS continues to be a family business, owned and operated

by Shane and Tommy Draughn. They are both actively involved in the construction processes from start to finish and have over seven decades of collective experience. The business concentrates on: vinyl liner pool construction, gunite pool/spa construction, renovations, service and repairs.

Unlike many pool builders, CPS is not a mass production builder.

We customize each and every project in some way, to achieve a balance in: customer’s taste and style, terrain considerations, functionality, backyard and house geometry, drainage and budget. CPS Pools and Spas is committed to offering all of our customers the best value available by providing superior construction, top quality materials and excellent customer service at an affordable price.

CPS is a trusted builder, with over six decades of proven methods and happy customers. CPS is capable of designing and constructing any project conceivable, from simple, traditional projects to modern

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concepts, as well as the projects that require “out of the box” thinking.

No matter what you have in mind for your backyard dream, we can bring it to life and make it a reality for you. Our dedication to building your pool to your vision and budget, is what makes us the #1 familyowned and family-managed choice to transform your backyard into a summer sanctuary.

Our commitment to customer satisfaction and quality projects is the number one reason why nearly all of our customers are referred to us by either professionals in the industry who respect our work or extremely satisfied CPS pool owners. CPS builds all projects from A-Z completely in-house, this assures the highest level of quality control. We are here to help; our experienced owners and staff are ready to develop and design your vision with you. Building a swimming pool is an investment in quality, the quality of your health, the quality of your home, the quality of your social life and the overall quality of your family’s life. Choosing a quality builder is your first step. Call today to schedule your in-home consultation; we look forward to meeting you!

New Age Dentistry with Southern Charm Dr. Patrick McGee Offers Comprehensive General Dentistry and More

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ROWING UP ON A FARM IN West Carroll Parish has a way of humbling a person. It also has a way of teaching hard work, perseverance, honesty and respect. Dr. McGee learned all of these things from his parents. His father instilled in him the value of education, but more importantly, the idea that everyone deserved to be treated fairly and with integrity. This has been the cornerstone on which he has built his practice.

Our goal is for every patient to leave feeling valued. Dr. McGee and his staff will listen and guide you to your personal goals. Whether you have a single tooth that has just been problematic, or you think you have more complex issues, Dr. McGee is here, conveniently located, to help. Because of his commitment to one-onone personalized care, patients only see Dr. McGee at their visits.

In order to give his patients the best dental treatment possible, Dr. McGee offers some of the most state-of-the-art technology and services available in dentistry. He is especially proud to offer dentistry’s most advanced imaging system available. The i-CAT cone-beam CT system allows for unprecedented diagnostic imaging. With the i-CAT system, Dr. McGee can see the entire facial structure of a patient and obtain valuable diagnostic information that is not available with conventional 2-dimensional x-rays. Chronic infections, bone loss and sinus pathology are just a few of the things that can be diagnosed with CBCT technology.

Restorative and reconstructive dentistry is also an integral part of what Dr. McGee does. From simply restoring a broken tooth to a healthy state, to full-mouth implant reconstructions, Dr. McGee can offer

the simplest to most complex treatment options. Dr. McGee has extensive training in the field of oral implantology. He has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education in the field of dental implant surgery, bone grafting and dental implant prosthetics. He is passionate about the field of implant dentistry. He believes dental implants can restore a patient’s oral health to normal form, function, health, comfort and esthetics.

Kindness mixed with science and a little bit of southern charm-that’s this office’s recipe for your dental experience. Dentistry doesn’t have to be complicated, confusing or scary. Let Dr. McGee and his team show you how!

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A Rooftop Wedding MARY ALEXANDRA BEASLEY AND MICHAEL TIMOTHY GARRIGA MARRIED IN A CLASSIC SOUTHERN AFFAIR

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ary Alexandra Beasley and Mr. Michael Timothy Garriga were united in holy matrimony at half past 6:00 in the evening on Saturday, January 27th, 2018 at the Rooftop Garden of the Vantage Tower in Monroe, Louisiana. The couple exchanged their vows in front of friends and family from across the state. “Crossing the pond” was the bride’s Aunt Lisa Rolfe from Norfolk, England to assist with the ceremony and act as Coordinator for the special occasion. Reverend Darryl Tate of Baton Rouge, the bride’s childhood pastor, officiated the double ring ceremony.

The Virginia Hotel, now known as the Vantage State Building, was built in 1925 by the Frost–Whited Investment Company of Shreveport. Located in downtown Monroe, Louisiana, the Rooftop Garden offered historical elegance for the classic southern affair.

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The imported Italian marble, the rare Japanese teakwood doors and beautiful chandeliers set the ambience for the entire affair.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gary D. Beasley of Rayville, Louisiana. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Waggoner Russell, Jr. of Winnsboro and Mr. and Mrs. Don Blackmon of Chase, as well as the late Mr. Gerald L. Beasley of Chase. The bride is a graduate of Riverfield Academy of Rayville and Louisiana Tech University of Ruston.

The groom is the son of Mrs. Susan Garriga of Shreveport and Mr. and Mrs. Brian Garriga of Gulfport, Mississippi. He is the grandson of Mr. Stanley Lewis, and the late Mrs. Pauline Taglavore Lewis of Shreveport; as well as Mr. Carl Garriga and the late Mrs. Irma Hodges of Gulfport, Mississippi. The groom is a graduate of Loyola College Prep

of Shreveport; Louisiana Tech University of Ruston and the Culinary College Institute of Baton Rouge.

Wedding guests entered the Rooftop Garden and were greeted by Ms. Jody Waller of Rayville, special friend to the bride, who served as the program and guest book attendant. Several tables were arranged for the couple’s guests to view before the ceremony commenced.

One such table was decorated with photos of aunts, grandmothers and special friends of the couple during their own wedding days.

The photos honored the many women in the bride’s life that have supported her through the years and helped shape her life. Another table was adorned with portraits of the couple’s grandparents to honor those who are no longer with us.

Ushers, childhood friends of the groom were Mr. Joel Hall of Shreveport; Mr. Andrew Lewis of New Orleans; Mr. Colby Lorant of Shreveport; and Mr. Baley Griffith of Shreveport, who escorted the guests to their seats. A hand painted, monogrammed aisle runner by Mrs. Tanya Paul of Ruston guided the guests to their seats.

The prelude and nuptial music were performed by pianist Mrs. Pam Givens with vocals by Mr. Russ Givens, of West Monroe. Mr. Russ Givens performed “Ave Maria” in Latin. Mrs. Meg Brown, friend of the couple, read a chosen passage of the Holy Scripture that was meaningful to the bridal couple during the ceremony.

The bride wore an elegant cathedral length gown of tulle, satin and silver crystals designed in a traditional Empire silhouette. The gown was designed by Madeline Gardner for Mori Lee. The structured bodice was intricately covered with silver crystals and featured an illusion, bateau neckline. The gown was fitted through the waist and softly flared away for a ceremonial, traditional look. The cathedral length bridal veil was trimmed with tiny crystals and was attached with an antique silver comb.

A shadow-embroidered heart with the bride’s name and wedding date was hand-sewn into the satin lining of the gown by the bride’s mother. The bride pinned two very special handkerchiefs to the lining of her bridal gown for her “Something Old.” The handkerchiefs were given to her when she was a child for this intended occasion by her maternal grandmother, Mrs. W. W. Russell, Jr and her paternal greatgrandmother, Mrs. Ted Givens. For “Something Borrowed” the bride wore a stunning pair of pearl and diamond earrings borrowed from the groom’s mother, Ms. Susan Garriga, which were given to her by her mother, the late Mrs. Pauline Lewis.

The bride carried a traditional hand-tied bouquet of Champagne and Patience garden roses, seeded eucalyptus, thistle and claret hypericum berries, designed by Mrs. Edward Greer of Rayville, a special grandmother to the bride. The bride’s bouquet was pinned with the bride’s sPhi Mu fraternity pin, symbolizing her fond memories and friend’s at Louisiana Tech. The Bride’s “Something Blue” was represented by the men and women of the Louisiana State Police in honor of her father, Lieutenant Gary D. Beasley. In addition, his Louisiana State Police Badge was pinned to her bouquet as well.

Attending the bride as matron of honor was Mrs. Jon Michael Livingston, life-long friend of Monroe. Serving as maid of honor was the bride’s cousin, Miss Mallory Russell of Calhoun. Bridesmaids were Miss Katee Fairchild of Monroe; Miss Mackenzie Caldwell of Monroe; Mrs. Christopher Garriga of Ruston; Mrs. Logan Cantu of Shreveport; and Miss Morgan McDonald of Magnolia, Arkansas. Miss Sarah McCorkle of Choudrant, also served as a bridesmaid but was absent due to an overseas appointment as a missionary. Serving as Junior bridesmaids were sisters, Miss Callie Rose Crawford and Miss Kate Crawford both of Rayville.

The flower girls were nieces of the groom, Miss Charley Garriga and Miss Collins Garriga of Ruston. Their parents are Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Garriga, brother to the groom and of Ruston.

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was escorted down the aisle by Junior Bridesmaid, Miss Kate Crawford.

The bride was blessed with a group of women who served as her House Party during her extraordinary day.

These beautiful women were: Mrs. Hilary Gilmore of Baton Rouge; Mrs. Lauren Layne of Virginia; Mrs. Michaela Herbold of North Carolina; Miss Courtney Phillips of West Monroe; Miss Mallory Parks of Monroe; Miss Sophie Barksdale of Monroe; Miss Leslie Spires of Mer Rouge; Miss Morgan Garrison of Ruston and Miss Lauryn Brooks of West Monroe.

Mr. Benjamin Strain of Baton Rouge and Mr. John Sella of Shreveport, childhood friends of the groom, served as best men.

Groomsmen were Mr. Drew Andre of Benton; Mr. Christopher Garriga of Ruston; Mr. Christopher Graham of West Monroe; Mr. Lee Beasley of Monroe; Mr. Tyler Visone of Oklahoma, as well as Mr. Kevin McCoy of Shreveport.

Following the ceremony, the parents of the bride hosted a reception in the Grand Ballroom of the Vantage Tower building.

A moss covered signage stating “Our Adventure Begins” was flanked by two gold and black lamps with photos of the couple’s engagement throughout the past year. The bride’s bridal portrait was displayed on a large easel and was draped with garden roses and seeded eucalyptus.

The ballroom was designed and enhanced by the talented artist Tanya Paul and her team at Everything Artsy Events.

The room was filled with imaginative arrangements of garden roses, seeded eucalyptus and claret hypericum berries.

The tables were adorned with fresh flowers and candles in gold abstract vases.

Guests strolled to the ballroom for candlelight dining and dancing. They enjoyed a delectable cuisine prepared by Uptown/Downtown Catering by Morgan Garrison of Ruston and Devine Catering by Hugh Wood of Benton.

The main buffet featured an array of chef-attended stations of fried catfish and the bride’s daddy’s homemade remoulade sauce and a carving station of pork loin with all of the fixings. An assortment of artisan cheeses, breads with fruits and fresh vegetables were served at various tables throughout the ballroom. Hot dips and her daddy’s famous, homemade cheeseballs were a guest’s favorite.

The six layer wedding cake was designed and made by the couple’s close friend, Miss Morgan Garrison and her talented crew of Uptown/Downtown of Ruston. The cake layers were decorated with an abstract watercolor painting and coordinating flowers.

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The groom’s table was decorated with Captain America memorabilia collected by the groom through the years. The three layer vanilla and Oreo cookie cake was layered with a rich, chocolate frosting and decorated with pieces of white chocolate bark and Oreos.

The 7-piece band, Caravan of Shreveport, provided the evening’s musical entertainment. The dance floor was the center of attention in the grand ballroom, as the couple shared their first dance to the song “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur.”

Following wedding tradition, the bride wore for her “Something New” a handmade garter given to her by Mrs. Lisa Givens Rolfe of Norfolk, England. The antique lace garter was handstitched with the couple’s names and wedding date. Not to leave the groom out, Aunt Lisa gave Michael a collectable New Orleans Saints football to use when throwing the garter to the eligible young men at the reception.

Angela Groce of Unveiled Radiance was the photographer, and videographer was Andy Chason of Plugged In Creative, captured the many memories of the evening. A photo booth, designed by Tanya Paul, was decorated with black and white stripes and embellished with large paper flowers in an array of colors from raspberry to soft pink to highlight the backdrop. Guests were encouraged to take fun photos and add them to a scrapbook for the bridal couple with their congratulatory wishes. Photography for the Photo Booth was provided by Mrs. Misty Garrison of Garrison Photo Booth.

As the beautiful evening was coming to a close, the announcer asked guests to line the street outside the ballroom for the bridal couple’s departure. Ali and Michael departed under a shower of snowflakes as guests shouted their good wishes. Waiting outside the grand ballroom for the couple was “Batman driving the Batmobile” for a quick escape to the couple’s tropical honeymoon in South Florida. Following the honeymoon, the couple have made their home in Ruston, Louisiana.

A special “Thank You” to the many talented friends and family members for their diligence in working to make sure that the engagement and wedding season was full of love, prayers and support.

The flower arrangements used during the special day were taken and distributed to a local hospital in honor of the couple’s grandparents. The entire bridal season was more than the couple could have ever dreamed of or imagined. They give our Heavenly Father all the glory and praise for his many blessings on both families.

Start Smiling Early!

Tips for Early Childhood Dentistry How Early is Too Early to See a Dentist?

There are different recommendations for parents regarding when children should visit the dentist for the first time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child should see a dentist by age one or six months after their first tooth appears. Typically, most children will visit the dentist for the first time by age three. It is important for parents to talk with their child’s pediatrician and/or dentist to determine the specific dental needs of each child.

chance their nerves will get the best of them.

One way to help calm the dentist jitters is to show them what a dentist visit is all about.

Bring your child along to your next dentist appointment and let them see mom or dad get an exam. Another recommendation is to allow extra time for that first visit. This way, the visit is not rushed or chaotic. A stressed or rushed parent can have a negative effect on a child. Also, make sure your child is well rested. A well rested child is more likely to feel relaxed and comfortable.

How Can I Ease My Child’s Fears?

Some experts believe that waiting to take a child to the dentist can escalate fears and anxiety. Let’s face it even adults can be scared of going to the dentist! No matter if a child is visiting a dentist for the first time or if they have frequent appointments, there is a good

Don’t Those Teeth Just Fall Out Anyway?

Yes. Eventually a child will lose their “baby teeth.” However, it is very important that primary teeth are properly cared for throughout a child’s development. Having healthy primary teeth will help children maintain adequate nutrition due to proper

chewing methods. Maintaining healthy teeth can also aid in speech development.

It is also important to keep primary teeth as long as possible. These teeth help save space for permanent teeth which will develop as a child grows.

How Often Should We See the Dentist?

Frequency of dental visits depend on the child. Those with little risk of cavities and gum disease should visit their dentist once or twice year. Higher risk patients should visit a dentist every three to four months. Higher risk patients include those with a personal or family history of oral issues and/or heart disease. those with heart disease.

Call NELA Dental to schedule your child’s check up or their very first visit. Our friendly team of dentists is ready to get your child started with good dental habits. We offer flexible appointment times at three convenient locations. Our offices are located in Monroe, Farmerville and Oak Grove. Our dentists are ready to help guide you and your family to a strong smile and healthy living.

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25th Anniversary Celebration Week Family Eye Care Celebrates June 4-8th

BY DR. ANTHONY LAMAR

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HE WEEK OF JUNE 4TH-8TH IS OUR 25TH Anniversary Celebration Week at Family Eye Care! We will be performing eye exams like normal. So, if you haven’t had a recent eye exam feel free to schedule an appointment so you will have an up to date glasses prescription to take advantage of this event. We will have various frame vendors here on Monday and Friday, with great discounts on eyewear throughout the entire week!

We also have a large selection of sunglass wear to help your eyes stay protected and comfortable in the summer sun. In most cases, vision insurance even covers prescription sunglasses. On Monday and Friday, we will have refreshments and door prizes as well!

For the past 25 years we have made an effort to stay up to date with the latest technology in eye care to provide our patients with the most thorough, convenient and non-invasive exams possible. Whether it’s with our Optos digital widefield retinal imaging, icare handheld tonometry (no more puff of air in the eye!), or advanced dry eye detection and treatment systems, patients continually experience great eye care with us. We have also applied this technology to our optical department with the latest digital progressive lens designs, making progressive lens adaptation easier

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than it’s ever been. Our opticians are now using the “Spectangle” fitting software to accurately fit patients in custom progressive lenses. High energy blue light filters, new types of transition coatings and thinner and lighter lens materials have also made eyeglass wearers more comfortable than ever before.

Please join us for our 25th Anniversary Celebration Week and take advantage of the wide selection of the latest designer frames! If you need an eye exam, please call and schedule your appointment today at 318-807-2020!

Don’t forget to stop by and grab a pair of sunglasses for dad this Father’s Day! Family Eye Care can help you find the perfect fit for your deserving dad.

Dr. Lamar completed Optometry School at the University of Alabama in Birmingham and completed a residency in ocular disease at Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans.

Meet Friends Where Friends Meet Trio’s is a Local Monroe Favorite

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OOKING FOR A CHIC PLACE TO HAVE DRINKS OR host a wedding party before the big day? Look no further than Trio’s on Forsythe Avenue. This local favorite is located at 2219 Forsythe Avenue in Monroe. They offer a fine dining experience with top-of-the-line cuisine, gourmet specials and top-notch service.

Their menu combines Mediterranean cuisine with American favorites. Owner Jenifer Johnson is a local who comes from a strong Greek heritage. When she first opened Trio’s, she knew she wanted the food to have a distinct Mediterranean influence. Trio’s Restaurant has stood the test of time by reinventing and adapting while keeping the tried-and-true staples of their establishment.

Along with incredible food, Trio’s also has a full service bar with a wide selection of fine wines and hand-crafted cocktails to give you or your group a great selection. They offer regular happy hour during the week and are a great place to stop and have drinks on the weekend. Brunch is served every Sunday from 10-3 with your choice of a signature Bloody Mary, or a round of bottomless mimosas!

Recently, Trio’s has undergone a fabulous makeover. An accent mirror wall, crisp white seating, and new artwork updated the space. “The updates reflect my personality. I want people to feel

welcome and comfortable when they walk in. Almost like they are walking in to our home.” Great food and a cool space to hang out in – that’s a pair you can’t pass up!

Need the entire place for a wedding party, day of celebration or event? No problem! Trio’s provides the venue, setup, food and bar!

Trio’s will make any gathering a delightful experience for guests, as well as the host. A customized menu and drink options are available!

So whether you are in the mood for a night out, want somewhere to catch the game, need an intimate spot for a date night or grab a quick meal from the drive through, Trio’s is the place!

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for constantly changing deals and specials!

Come on over and meet friends, where friends meet!

2219 Forsythe Ave in Monroe 318-387-3577 Monday through Saturday, 11-11 Sunday from 11-7 • Sunday Brunch 11-3

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BAYO U I C O N

M AY O R DAV E NORRIS

THE UNCOMMON LIVES, CAREERS, AND SINCERITY OF LOUISIANA’S LONGEST SERVING MAYOR article by Michael Devault and photography by Brad Arender

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y 1942, West Monroe had grown to little more than a trading outpost for the rural farmers, timber producers and livestock owners along the western side of the Ouachita River. Connected to its larger “twin” city of Monroe by bridges at Bridge Street and Mill Street, major commerce took place across the river.

For anything other than the most rudimentary healthcare, residents of the western side of the parish had to travel to the hospital in downtown Monroe, St. Francis.

They shopped for clothes along Desiard Street – in Monroe. Farming implements were procured from dealers on the east bank. The community lacked a high school, and those students who attended high school went to Ouachita Parish High School, where from the windows they could see their homes, fields, and what little made up the community.

This is the world into which Dave Noel Norris was born, early on a hot August day.

His father and mother had made their home in West Monroe, where they already had one son, William Wiley Norris III. Here, Dave would grow into a young man as his town began taking the first steps to the modern era. In those days, they’d just opened West Monroe High School, and Dave was among some of the earliest students. It was during high school he took his first steps towards what would become one of four full-time careers.

“I liked music, and so several friends and I started a band. We called it the Scarlets,” he says. The Scarlets played rock music, including their signature song, “Scarlet Ribbons,” at dances and other venues throughout high school. The Scarlets never really took off, but that’s not to say the band failed to leave a lasting legacy.

Dave was a singer in the band. Their keyboardist, a young girl named Biddy Dupree, had caught his eye. The two had met in English class, and when the Scarlets came together, Biddy was a natural fit. A gifted piano player, Biddy had been the pianist at their family’s church, McGuire Methodist, since she was twelve. Dave admired her talent and her dedication to playing. It’s a dedication that’s followed her for her whole life.

“She is totally devoted to playing,” Dave says of his wife. “I marvel at her commitment to it, because she’s been doing it so long.”

Like so much more in the Norris family, once Biddy started playing the piano, she simply didn’t stop, a pattern that would repeat itself throughout both their lives together and apart. For it seems that any time a Norris picks up a career path, they stick with it, even when

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When West Monroe Mayor Dave Norris exits West Monroe City Hall for the last time on June 30th, he’ll leave behind an office he’s held for four decades and a city he’s transformed with an almost fanatical zeal for doing the right thing. Along the way, he’s hosted a popular morning show, taught generations of business majors at two of the region’s major universities, led worship and music at McGuire Methodist Church, and he’s done it all while raising a family. Any one of these accomplishments singled out would be enough to make him noteworthy, and to be fair, we’ve honored Bayou Icons from each of these walks – mayor, educator, minister, father. When it comes to Dave Norris, though, one thing is never enough. In honor of more than fifty years of devoted service to his family, his church and his community, Dave Norris is BayouIcon for June, 2018. new career opportunities come along.

Dave graduated from West Monroe High in 1960. He entered Northeast Louisiana State College later that year, and by 1963 he earned his Bachelor of the Arts in Government. An MBA followed from Louisiana Tech just two years later. He was offered and accepted a tenure-track professorship at NLSC in 1968.

By 1974, he had earned his Doctorate of Business Administration from Mississippi State University, where he studied Economics.

A career in academia seemed in the cards.

“I kind of had the goal of becoming a college professor, when I was working on my MBA,” Dave says. “I thought academic life would be a lot of fun, and it was.”

Dave enjoyed the life of a college professor on campus, working with students, helping them find their way. Balancing the work of a musician – the Norris family hadn’t given up playing music together, after all – and a college professor, was challenging. Adding young children to the mix made it more so.

But theirs was a good life, and it was a life that afforded them the opportunity to continue doing thing the things they loved.

Between teaching assignments, Dave and Biddy toured with their new band, a gospel group called the Pacemakers. (“It was before the medical device was invented,” Dave notes.) The Pacemakers performed 10 shows in Nashville and recorded four albums.

Louisiana political reporter Bob Mann was one of Dave’s students in the late 1970s.

He recalls being impressed by his professor’s vibrant mind and commitment to helping his students learn complicated concepts that often ran contrary to their own beliefs or even logic.

Economics, after all, is a complex science.

More importantly, Bob was there at a critical time in Dave’s career.

“He was running for mayor at the time.

I was intrigued by having a professor, who was in the middle of a semester, running for mayor,” Bob says. Though he soon completed his studies at NLU – the school had since changed its name – Bob and Dave would soon again cross paths. “Little did I know that just a few years later, I’d be the reporter for the News-Star assigned to cover West Monroe City Hall and would get to know him much better.”

BAYO U I C O N

THAT WAS THE ELECTION OF 1978. For years, Dave’s brother had been engaged in politics, rising eventually to a judge in West Monroe. Bill Norris recognized something in his college professor brother, and he kept pushing him to go into politics.

“My brother was really instrumental.

He’d been in politics for years, and he kept pushing me to run,” Dave says. To add additional pressure, Bill suggested that college professors “never do anything in the real world,” and Dave should do something more. There was only one problem for Dave.

“I loved teaching so much, I really didn’t want to run. But I liked government, took classes, and it was my bachelor’s degree. So I decided to run.”

Recognizing that running for mayor could mean challenging three-term West Monroe Mayor Bert Hatten, Dave went straight to City Hall and asked to sit down with the mayor. Bert had known the Norris family for decades, and he took the meeting.

“Dave told me prior to the end of my third term he was going to run, if I didn’t,” Bert recalls. “I assured him I had no intention of running for a fourth term. So he ran.”

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of aldermen for the election. A young, professional family man, a minister, a college professor and a member of a prominent family, Candidate Dave Norris proved a formidable opponent and an effective campaigner. He was elected handily, and he took office July 1, 1978.

He would not face a serious opponent for mayor for 8 consecutive elections and was elected unchallenged in the majority of them.

Over forty years as mayor, Dave has created something of a legacy for himself and for the city he’s served.

For his first terms in office, Dave was a devout reformer. He streamlined and modernized city operations, hiring new professionals to fill roles necessary in a modern city. He also doggedly pursued shoring up the city’s finances, which included the passage of a two-cent sales tax to bolster the city’s general fund. To be successful, Dave recognized he’d need help, and that help would have to be of a significant caliber to accomplish his goals.

“I’m the proudest of the quality of people who work for the city,” Dave says.

“We have had exceptional people for some time, but each year, it seems their dedication

and cooperation grows. I think we’ve brought together some of the highest performing public servants of any city of any size, and I’d put our people and their skills up against anybody’s. They are truly top notch.”

With the workforce in place to serve the population and a sales tax to support revenues, Dave next set about growing the city’s economy. For a city with a new sales tax, that meant attracting retail. A missed opportunity in the early 1980s gave Dave a vision to follow. He explains.

“When they built Pecanland Mall in Monroe in 1984, there was no suitable site in West Monroe,” Dave says. “I knew then that we needed a site along I-20 that would be able to compete.”

Under Mayor Hatten, West Monroe had worked with the Corps of Engineers, the state, and federal agencies to reclaim an old gravel pit. The work had been ongoing for years, but Dave redoubled efforts. Within just a few years, the site was the home of the West Monroe Industrial Park and a new retail development zone.

It took twenty years to conceive, fund, design, build and then open the Ike Hamilton Expo Center in the area, and within a year,

two hotels had opened, as well as retail and dining establishments. A major developer approached the city with plans to build a destination shopping and residential community. By 2007, Dave’s vision of a mixed-use retail facility to rival the mall was about to become a reality.

In a hopeful photo published in The Ouachita Citizen, Dave stands with a city employee, surveying the empty field. The city was weeks, maybe a few months, from announcing the development’s anchor tenants and breaking ground. That’s when the bottom fell out of the economy, dealing a death blow to the development.

Mary Ann Moon was president of the West MonroeWest Ouachita Chamber of Commerce at the time. She recalls Dave’s desire to put a retail development on the site as “truly visionary,” and she remembers how quickly he moved to continue to protect the site, reserving it for the correct tenants when, eventually, the economy recovered.

“It’s an unrealized vision, but here’s the thing,” Mary Ann tells BayouLife. “That’s what they need there. And with Ruston doing the incredible things they are, to have that connector right there, on the interstate, it’s vital. Everything in the region is growing that direction, and it has to happen there, on that site, and he knows that.”

Economic development aside, Dave wasn’t finished growing professionally yet. He was an established musician and music minister with a solid recording career behind him.

He was a tenured professor at a major regional university.

And he was mayor of one of the fastest growing communities in northeast Louisiana. That meant it was time to add one more iron to the fire.

The opportunity presented itself in 1980, when Dave met the new general manager of KTVE, West Monroe’s television station and NBC affiliate. The manager approached Dave for ideas about how the station could better serve its audience and grow viewership.

Dave knew just the way: he suggested a morning show to compete with Jack and June on KNOE, and he even recommended

an innovative new format – make it a nice morning chat in a living room rather than two anchors at a desk.

Station brass were impressed. When they asked him if he knew someone who could host such a show, he informed them he didn’t. They refused to let go of the idea, and just a few months later, the general manager

“DAVE WANTED WEST MONROE TO GROW, TO PROSPER, AND TO BECOME A CATALYST FOR DEVELOPMENT. HE WANTED TO DO WELL FOR THE COMMUNITY BECAUSE IT WAS HIS HOME.” approached Dave with a novel idea: Dave should host.

C.J. Sartor was the morning news anchor at the time, and she recalls the morning show’s early days as exciting and entertaining. More importantly, she remembers Dave, who she says was a natural for television. Many mornings, she served as a substitute co-host with Dave.

“He’s not one of those guys who wants

you to defer to him or let him take up all the air in the room when you’re on screen,” she says, noting the male-dominated world of television was rife with anchors who insisted on deference from female counterparts.

“Dave wasn’t like that. He was very generous with space, very respectful with me as a professional in television. I really enjoyed working with him. I really did.”

Through the KTVE morning show, a new side of Dave began to emerge to the community, a side that had been reserved for years to his family and a few close friends. Dave’s secret weapons was what Bob Mann calls “a wicked sense of humor.”

Bob recalls visiting Monroe for a book signing some years after the show began. During the signing at Pecanland Mall, Dave was there. A woman approached and began to gush praise.

“She told him how big a fan of the show she was, and she said, ‘Mayor Norris, I see you every morning in my bedroom!’”

Bob recounts. “Without missing a beat, Dave replies, ‘I see you, too, and you need a new bathrobe.’”

That sense of humor also impressed Mary Ann, who encountered it during her first meeting with the mayor in his office at City Hall. At the time, her family was considering moving their warehousing and trucking firm from Monroe to West Monroe. As owner and president of the company, Mary Ann decided to find out what West Monroe could do for the company from the source. She went to the mayor’s office.

“I went through my whole pitch, talking about my family’s company, what we did, why we were considering moving, and the whole time he was just sitting there,” she recalls. “I get to the last bit, and he looks up and says, ‘What in the hell do you know about running a warehousing and trucking company?’ I looked dead at him and said, ‘About as much as you do about running a city!’ And he burst out laughing.”

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West Monroe’s industrial park. Later, as president of the Chamber, she watched Dave operate as an economic developer for the city. “It’s not possible to overstate the impact he’s had,” she says.

“You have to attribute where West Monroe is right now to Bert Hatten and Dave Norris,” she says. “For Dave, the biggest factor to his success is that Dave didn’t come in with an agenda. He wanted West Monroe to grow, to prosper and to become a catalyst for development.

He wanted to do well for the community, because it was his home.

That’s difficult to find these days.”

Bob agrees. He points out that over the years of their friendship, he frequently recommended Dave pursue higher office. Perhaps running for Congress was the logical next step. Each time, though, Dave dismissed it. Bob thinks he knows why.

“I don’t think he was prepared to make the compromises and pretend to be the far right conservative he’d have to pretend to be to get elected in northeast Louisiana,” Bob says. He adds that, as a Democrat in northeast Louisiana, Dave is a rare success, mostly due to a staunch, fiscal conservativeness that’s served the city well.

Bert also points to Dave’s tenure and the fiscal responsibility with which he’s approached governing. Much of the city’s success, Bert says, has been enabled at least in part by scrupulous financial attention.

“He’s been very successful in raising the revenue to the city’s general fund,” Bert says. “You might question some of his priorities, but he’s done some things that really contribute very well to the image. The general fund revenues are higher than ever, and the city’s debt is very well-managed.”

Some of those accomplishments include the Sparta Reclamation Project, which environmental officials credit with single-handedly reversing depletion of the vital Sparta Aquifer. In addition to building a robust infrastructure – including fully self-funding a new interchange near the Ike – the city built Kiroli Park, one of the region’s major attractions. And the city continues to move forward on redevelopment at the old gravel pit site. Even in the face of failing so close to the finish line in 2008, Dave is still optimistic about the site.

“It’s going to be a huge asset for the city for the future,” Dave says.

“I didn’t accomplish that, but I think it’s coming in the very near future.”

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n the winter of a forty-year career at the helm of a major regional economic driver, Mayor Dave Norris still looks ever forward, not backwards, at what he believes will be, not what has passed.

Mary Ann calls this uncompromising vision for West Monroe one of the city’s greatest assets. Bob agrees.

In a sprawling, heartfelt editorial in the Times-Picayune commemorating Dave’s induction into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame last year, Bob singled out Dave as a friend and the kind of generous mentor that comes around once in a life, if one is lucky. It’s a generosity that comes from sincerity, Mary Ann believes. Bob adds that it’s part of Dave’s spirit that propelled him for forty years.

One by one, the careers he’s assembled have come to a close. He left the morning show in 1990, after ten years on the air. He retired from teaching ten years later. And now, he’ll close the door on the mayor’s office one last time before returning home to his woodworking shop, his grandchildren, his wife and to his music. He has no intention of giving up the music ministry any time soon – something that’s absolutely not hard to believe about a man who’s served his community tirelessly for more than half a century.

“If it’s possible to finish strong, having been mayor of a city for 40 years, I think Dave’s doing it,” Bob says. “He didn’t lose his energy, and he certainly didn’t lose his vision.”

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Marty and Mark's Jewelry and Watch Repair Two Local Experts Open New Shop on Trenton Street

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F YOU HAVE VENTURED DOWN TRENTON STREET IN the heart of West Monroe in the last couple of months, we may have noticed a familiar face. Marty Grassi has returned to the Twin Cities and brings decades of experience with him when it comes to repairing jewelry. He has teamed up with Mark Bennett, a local watchmaker with 30 years experience repairing watches, to open Marty and Mark’s Jewelry and Watch Repair at 224 Trenton Street. They bring their experience in jewelry and watch repair, so customers won’t have to send their repairs off in order to be fixed.

Marty Grassi is a well-known name in this area for quality jewelry and expert jewelry repair. Before closing his store in 2011, Mary and his wife, Jeanie, served the twin cities and surrounding areas for over 35 years.

“I am excited to be back serving the same people I have for years and now a new generation,” said Marty. “I truly credit my success on three things – treating people fairly, being honest and doing quality work.”

After a short retirement, Marty is looking forward to focusing on those three things with his good friend, Mark Bennett. Mark offers watch service and repair, as well as a selection of pre-owned Rolex watches. He has completed Level 1 Rolex training in Dallas, TX in 1996 and Level 2 in Litiz, PA in 2004, as well as a Tag Heuer Training course in May of 2004. But he services and repairs all types of watches including Omega, Seiko, Tag Heuer, Pulsar, Luminox, Rolex, Bulova, Elgin, Hamilton and more.

“We are the only in-house watchmaker in the Twin Cities, and all of the work is done in our shop,” said Mark. “We want the community know that their time pieces do not have to be sent out for repair.” Marty and Mark’s can repair and replace missing crystals, stems, crowns, gaskets, watch bands and bracelets. Plus, all repairs complete come with a one-year warranty from Mark himself.

In addition, there is on-site battery replacement, as well as free estimates.

Marty and Mark are local people taking care of local people.

With years in the industry in Northeast Louisiana, they are a name to trust. At their new shop, you can expect fast service, fair prices and expert work!

Disclaimer: Not affiliated with Rolex U.S.A.

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Bulls in the Streets Benefiting The Chennault Aviation and Military Museum and Roe City Rollers

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HE SPIRIT OF SPAIN COMES ALIVE in downtown Monroe June 9th with the annual Bulls in the Streets event.

Participants and spectators alike will join in the fun as roller derby girls, sporting bull horns and wiffle-ball bats, skate behind those who run, walk or crawl to the finish-line. The winner gets a trophy and bragging-rights, but the real draw for many will be the laughs and tales along the way as the roller-bulls “attack” runners with their bats. Proceeds from this one-mile fun-run will benefit the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum and Monroe’s own Roe City Rollers roller derby team.

Families can enjoy various activities leading up to and after the charge, including food trucks, live music and bouncy houses for kids. The race begins at 5:00 p.m. and families are invited to line the streets for the spectacle.

The race’s starting and ending point will be at Flying Tiger Brewery, which acts as the “bull pen,” serving up brews for adults to enjoy.

The festivities will begin at 3:00 p.m. and will

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lead up to a celebration after the run.

In keeping with the original Running of the Bulls event in Spain, participants must wear white shirts and red bandanas (received at registration) around their neck.

Early registration begins at only $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for kids. The event t-shirts and bandanas are designed by artist Jason Byron Nelson. Visit bullsinthestreets.org or facebook.com/bullsinthestreets for ticket and registration information. Flying Tiger Brewery is located at 506 N. 2nd Street in Monroe.

The Roe City Rollers is a Monroe, LA based women’s flat track roller derby league.

It was founded in 2011 and is a group of strong athletic women dedicated to the evolving sport of roller derby. Through the league’s bouts, events and community outreach, athleticism and creativity are brought to Northeast Louisiana.

The Chennault Aviation and Military Museum (CAMM) promotes and honors the story of the Flying Tigers and their amazing

feats during WWII. The bilingual “Way of a Fighter” Exhibit houses the country’s largest collection of General Claire Chennault artifacts and correspondence. Chennault was the founder of the Flying Tigers and is considered the “Father of Tactical Pursuit” in today’s Air Force.

The museum spans all wars from WWI through Iraqi Freedom and represents all military branches. Throughout the over 11,000 artifacts on display, Northeast Louisiana’s prominent role in aviation and military history is also showcased. The museum building is one of the last remaining structures of Selman Field Navigation School, the largest navigation school in the United States during WWII. Admission to the museum is free, but donations and memberships are how the museum operates. CAMM actively supports numerous veterans’ initiatives, including housing its own chapter of the Disabled American Veterans Association, which actively pursues benefits for veterans and their families. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. It is located at 701 Kansas Lane, Monroe, LA 71203.

Reclaim Your WellBeing And Sexuality Now Offering Testosterone Pellet Therapy

BY JUDY WAGONER

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OTHER NATURE PLAYS A DIRTY trick on men and women with the passage of time. Just as we begin to enjoy our lives as empty-nesters, our bodies seem to change overnight, as we cope with night sweats, ballooning weight, fuzzy thinking, aching joints, loss of stamina and libido.

What’s happening to cause so many people to have similar aging complaints? With aging comes the plummeting of our hormone levels, which wreaks havoc on our bodies!

Women are accustomed to the fluxes of hormones. It’s been the story of your life.

It all began with your first period. If you experienced pregnancy, your world was really turned upside down as hormone levels rose and then quickly dropped after birth. As you approach menopause, the changes can be even more severe. This is when your reproductive system is preparing to shut down. The

changes in hormone levels can be significant, causing troublesome symptoms. This decline of hormone levels, along with the subsequent breakdown of the body, is nature’s way of making sure you don’t live forever, making room for the next generation While not as disruptive as menopause, men’s sex hormones are also declining at midlife and earlier, with Testosterone being the main culprit of symptoms. The difference is their decline in hormones is not as sharp and sudden as a woman’s. They may feel small dips in their energy level, stamina, mental function, libido, and sense of well-being.

The good news is you don’t have to suffer and resign yourself to the infirmities of advancing age. A simple solution is to replace your lost hormones with human identical hormones, which are available to both men and women.

Human identical hormones have the

same molecular structure as those produced by the body. They look identical to your own hormones — estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid, growth hormone and insulin. They’re taken from natural sources, such as soybeans or yams, and are more easily absorbed by the body than other types of hormone replacement therapy. They come in the form of creams, pellets, pills, injections and patches.

Dr. Victor Zuckerman, a Diplomat in the American Academy of Anti-Aging, and Medical Director at Professional Laser Center, has been prescribing Hormone replacement therapy for almost a decade. He is now offering testosterone pellet insertion for both men and women. Dr. Zuckerman implants the tiny pellets under the skin near the hip, where they slowly release a stable, steady, optimum dose of testosterone over the course of three to six months. The procedure takes about 20 minutes to perform, and there is little to no pain or downtime. Our patients are loving them!

Hormone replacement therapy can change your life! It is YOUR MOST POWERFUL WEAPON in the war on aging.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zuckerman, call 318361-9066. For a list of all of our services, please visit our website at www.professionallaser. com.

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need to know what to look for – to help their children avoid falling for the lies. Children need to know about it, so they can avoid it and help their friends avoid it.

CHILD SEX TRAFFICKING

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BY THE CHILDREN’S COALITION FOR NORTHEAST LOUISIANA

hild sex trafficking is on the rise in Ouachita Parish. Last year there were 6 reported child sex trafficking cases in Ouachita Parish, more than in the previous four years combined.

Trafficking, for adults, is when an individual is made to perform commercial sex acts through force, fraud or coercion; against their will or consent. For children, it occurs when any child, under the age of 18, is involved in commercial sexual exploitation.

Under the TVPA (Trafficking Victims Protection Act), a child is always a victim of trafficking— regardless of whether or not the trafficker used force, fraud or coercion. Nationally, cases of human trafficking reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888) and BeFree Textline (233733) jumped by 13 percent in 2017 from the previous year, according to data released

by Polaris. It is happening all across the country. It is happening in big cities like Los Angeles, Dallas and New Orleans, and it is happening in smaller towns like Minden, Lake Providence and Monroe.

Clay Walker, is a husband, father and attorney. He began working in civil rights in Shreveport when he was appointed to a juvenile case early in his career. From 1998 to 2008, he took on an increasing

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number of juvenile cases. In 2008, the state created a statewide Public Defender Board, and Clay was appointed as the first State Juvenile Defender.

He served in that capacity for 3 years, overseeing the juvenile defenders in all 64 parishes. In 2011, he became the Director of Juvenile Services for Caddo Parish. Currently, he heads the Community Response for child trafficking in Caddo Parish.

Q: What is the most important thing for teens and their parents to know about child sex trafficking?

A: Trafficking for many children begins with deception. The trafficker often begins by convincing a child that he (most often a male, but could also

Last year there were 6 reported child sex trafficking cases in Ouachita Parish, more than in the previous four years combined be female), is in love with the child. He deceives the child into thinking that they are working together. In reality, the trafficker is using the child, manipulating him or her into the situation. Parents

Q: What are some of the most common misconceptions about human/child sex trafficking?

A: The most common misconception is that human trafficking only happens in big cities, in hotels with stereotypical pimps. In reality, it is happening in small towns all across the country. It is happening anywhere there is poverty or vulnerable children—in schools, in juvenile detention centers, in foster care programs. It is not just in hotels, the real numbers are in neighborhood operations, sometimes called “trap houses.” Children that are runaways are often lured into these houses as places to stay, and then lured into situations that look like parties, but in reality, they are simply events where people use drugs and alcohol and then trade in sex with these children. And there is no stereotypical “pimp.” It can be anyone. They can look like anyone.

The only commonality is that they are generally charismatic. They have developed some skill in “seducing” children – manipulating the children.

Another big misconception is that the children somehow choose it. No child can consent legally to sex in Louisiana, but even when it looks like a 16-year-old is choosing to involve herself in a situation, the manipulation that convinced her to do so is often years before. The ways in which she (and I am using “she” as most often the victims are female, but they are also often male) has been deceived into thinking that she is choosing her fate or is in control of her fate – she’s not. The child has been made to believe that this is something they might want to do to make money or gain something of value – but it’s all part of a manipulation by the trafficker.

Q: What can I do to keep my child safe?

A: As with all things involving children, simply being present and involved is the key. Asking about

all of the child’s interactions – asking about friends and acquaintances, asking about events they are attending. It is important to explain to children that not all people they interact with in person or on-line are being honest about their intentions. You have to prepare children for understanding that some people will try to manipulate them. But, like other issues of parenting, it’s simply being a little nosey, being involved, asking questions and not stopping when a child says her day was “fine” or “good.”

Q: Why is it important to talk about child sex trafficking in Ouachita Parish?

A: Because children are being traumatized in your community. They are being raped; they are being beaten; they are being taken to other parts of the state and country and hurt. They are often discarded when they are injured or sick or infected with STI’s. All of this leaves young people even more entangled in poverty – thus repeating the cycle of poverty. It also brings with it other criminal activity. In a house where there is trafficking, there will also be drugs and guns. Addressing trafficking will address all of these issues.

Q: What is my community doing to help keep our children safe?

A: The good news is that the 4th JDC Juvenile Court, local law enforcement, non-profits like the Child Advocacy Center and the Children’s Coalition, and several agencies that work with children are all collaborating. They are sharing information about dangers, so that they can find these dangerous people before they threaten children in Ouachita Parish. This group is even meeting with counterparts in other cities like Shreveport, to discuss how traffickers are moving along the Interstate, and looking at ways to bring prevention programs to our schools and youth. Leaders from Ouachita are gathering information from other areas of the state to learn as much as they can to keep these dangerous people out of Ouachita and to catch them if they do come to Monroe. It’s an on-going battle, but Ouachita, for a Parish of its size is actually doing more than most counties in the United States.

RESOURCES National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888 The National Human Trafficking Hotline is a national anti-trafficking hotline serving victims and survivors of human trafficking and the antitrafficking community in the United States. The toll-free hotline is available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year in more than 200 languages.

Love146 Prevention Education equips students to understand the realities of human trafficking so that they can better protect themselves and their peers from risk, and get help. You can find online resources for parents at https:// love146.org/caregivers/

Jan Daniels, Youth Development Director at the Children’s Coalition, works with local agencies and experts to provide accurate and appropriate information to youth.

Call Jan at (318) 323-8775 or go to www. childrenscoalition.org to learn more about upcoming programs and resources.

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Forsythe Church of Christ

Vacation Bible School - The Marketplace “Paul’s Journeys”

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ORSYTHE CHURCH OF CHRIST IS HOSTING VACATION Bible School on Sunday, June 10th through Wednesday, June 13th from 6:30-9:00 p.m. The kids “travel” back in time to learn of the everyday life in the time of Jesus. While dressed in Biblical time clothing, the children will visit the marketplace and go to different shops each night.

In each shop, they learn about the habits, traditions and lifestyles of 37-67 A.D. Each child gets to make jewelry, lap boards, ropes, pottery and other items. This year, travelers visit a carpenter’s shop and a storyteller’s tent. They also get to worship God in the first century ways at the Synagogue School and learn to write on scrolls in the Hebrew language. By using gold pebbles and coins, they can purchase candies and herbs. To add to the ancient atmosphere, Roman guards, live sheep, beggars, apostles and Jesus will roam the marketplace acting out several scenes from the Bible.

The children will learn first hand what it was like to live during the time of Jesus.

The Marketplace “Paul’s Journeys” is open to the community.

Please make plans to attend this fun, free and exciting time. Call 318.387.4467 or email donna@primowebsites.net to register. We would love to have your place secured before the big day of June

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10th. There is no charge and no fees! This is a completely free event and welcomes children of all ages!

The Forsythe Church of Christ in Monroe, Louisiana is a community of faith meeting on Forsythe Avenue. We invite you and your family to visit our worship assemblies and Bible classes. You will find a warm welcome, a simple and reverent worship assembly, and a strong commitment to the teachings of the Bible. With regular services each Sunday, we would love to have you visit with us. If you have any questions, please feel free to email or call.

We look forward in sharing this incredible journey with you!

Forsythe Church of Christ 2101 Forsythe Ave. Monroe, LA 71201 318.387.4467 Join us for Sunday Worship Sunday Schedule: 9:15 - Breakfast 10:00 - Worship 11:10 Bible Classes for all ages

fine folks.

By Lindsey + Taylor

A Passion for Faith, Family and Creating Beautiful Things

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I! I’M LINDSEY LOWE, AN EVERchanging wife, ever-growing mother, and ever-learning wedding/event stylist. I am inspired by all things unique, natural and wild. I am passionate about nature and all things outdoors. These passions give me inspiration and new ideas for creating arrangements and installations.

Using my eye for details, I have developed a knack for organizing events of all sizes, both small and large, covering all the bases from theme concepts, environment styling and staffing. More recently, I’ve delved into styling photoshoots and hosting floral pop-up shops. I strive to find love in the everyday and want that to resonate in your wedding or event.

Hey there! I’m Taylor Bennett, a creative who strives to live intentionally and embrace each season. Depending on the day, you may find me styling shoots for

BayouLife, arranging florals for an upcoming wedding or styling out someone’s home.

I’ve traveled many places and worked in many creatives roles during my early twenties, but none compare to being home and waking up to do what I love each and every day.

I love that we have the opportunity to create spaces and florals for life’s grandest moments.

Together, we are Lindsey + Taylor of Finefolks.

We are two southern curators that have a passion for faith, family and creating beautiful things. We could tell you stories of growing up in the same small town, all the crazy projects we’ve collaborated on over the years, or the time we attempted our first wedding bouquet… but we will spare you the details.

Finefolks. is two friends who love

making events come to life, whether it’s a fancy soiree, a backyard shindig, a classy southern wedding, or whatever else you can dream up! We have a passion for creating beautiful and unique events. Inspired by art, nature and Louisiana’s rich culture, we try to craft each event to the individualized style of our clients. Finefolks. provides the modern day bride and groom with a unique, stylish yet cost effective service in the areas of wedding styling and florals. We would love to design some florals for you, curate your next event, or even just grab coffee and have some good conversation.

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Pampered & Polished Nails • Skin • Beauty

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AMPERED & POLISHED HAS BEEN the go to place for hair, skin and nails since 2011. This award winning salon is located on Hwy 165 North, across from Brookshire’s and won the Bayou Buzz Award last year for best nail salon. In May of 2018, Dakota and Taylor Smith purchased the salon, but you can still expect the same great service. “We will be doing some updating over the next few months, but we will still offer the manicures, pedicures and other services that our community has come to expect from Pampered & Polished,” said Dakota.

Pampered & Polished offers a variety of natural manicures and pedicures, including luxe services with rejuvenating indulgences such as paraffin wax, sugar scrub, masque and hot towel wrap. There are even options for men and kids. There are also several facials to choose from, featuring Dermalogica brand products.

The Refresh Facial is perfect for people on

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the go, the Renew Facial includes a gentle facial cleansing, toner, exfoliation, masque, moisturizer and mini neck and shoulder massage, and the Rejuvinate Facial uses antiaging products and is perfect for mature or sun damaged skin. Pampered & Polished even offers waxing services including eye, lip, chin, underarms, bikini, Brazilian, back and more.

No matter what your needs are, Pampered & Polished has everything to satisfy your pampering desires. And it is the perfect place to celebrate with a group of friends! Whether it is a birthday, bridal shower, bachelorette party or bridal party getting ready for the big day, Pampered & Polished can accommodate groups of all sizes.

Dakota is the owner of Dot Dot’s Boutique, which is located right next to Pampered & Polished in the same shopping center. The women’s clothing boutique originally opened in 2015 in it’s original location inside Lori’s

Shear Perfection and expanded to it’s current location in 2017. With clothes for all shapes and sizes, Dot Dot’s has become quite popular with women and teens looking for trendy clothes, shoes, bags and accessories. Dakota plans on creating an opening between to the two businesses to open the space up.

Pampered & Polished is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged.

You can book online at their website getpamperedandpolished.com - and even request a particular service provider! Gift certificates are available and make a great birthday, anniversary or “just because” gift!

Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on updates to the salon, giveaways and an official ribbon cutting coming soon!

Tonore’s Wine Cellar Planning Alcohol Options for Your Big Day

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ET’S ADMIT IT — WHILE GUESTS are always happy to celebrate the union of a dear friend or family member, their favorite part of the wedding is the food and the booze (especially the latter). A good wedding bar setup can really enhance the guest experience. But there can be a lot more to the standard drink bar than serving up beer. Glassware, mixers and delivery is something that no one really wants to think about while planning the rest of their big day!

Enter Tonore’s…

Planning a special event: birthday party, engagement party, class reunion or even wedding reception, let Russell at Tonore’s help you find the right combination for your occasion! On a budget? No problem! At Tonore’s Wine Cellar, they can help you pick out the best options for your budget!

There’s one surefire way to make your wedding memorable (in the worst possible way): run out of alcohol. To prevent this

reception catastrophe, let Tonore’s do all of the work for you! We have broken it down to the most popular alcohol options for your event: The Open Bar and The Limited Bar. THE OPEN BAR

An open bar is the most gracious approach. Guests can order any drink at the bar, and you’ll have to pick up the tab when the party’s done. Because there’s no limit, people may drink like guppies. Know anyone who tends to imbibe too much? Tell the bartender in advance.

Anyone planning to serve alcohol at their wedding will probably agree that an open bar is ideal—but we know it can get pricey. Not everyone can dedicate a significant chunk of their reception budget to a night of unlimited, free-flowing spirits. That’s why we’ve come up with a few alternatives to the full, open bar that aren’t a cash bar (because you should never ask your guests to enjoy your party

out of pocket). Here’s how to cut back on wedding reception alcohol without depriving your guests.

THE LIMITED BAR

You offer a selection of drinks—beer, wine and a signature cocktail, for example— and set specific consumption times, such as the cocktail hour, the toasts and during dancing. Keep it simple with the essentials: wine, beer and a signature drink. With the option of beer, vino and a hard-alcoholic sip, you should be able to satisfy pretty much everyone’s cocktail cravings.

Don’t forget to complete your wedding checklist at Tonore’s! They offer baskets, delivery and party planning! Tonore’s is a one-stop-shop this wedding season!

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The Beautiful Day

MIRIAM LOUISE HENRY AND JAMES STERLING HEWITT, JR. TIE THE KNOT AT A PRIVATE RESIDENCE AND CELEBRATE AT THE VANTAGE STATE BUILDING ROOFTOP GARDEN

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iriam Louise Henry, daughter of Mr. James and Mrs. Jennie Henry of Monroe, LA, and James Sterling Hewitt Jr., son of Mr. Jimmy and Mrs. Kathy Hewitt of Monroe, LA, said “I do” on a beautiful Saturday, May 5, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. in the evening. The ceremony was held at a private residence, the home of a dear family friend, in the River Oaks district of Monroe, LA. Classic ivory invitations with a custom monogram, designed by James Henry and printed by Paper n’ Things in Baton Rouge, LA, were sent to guests in envelopes of grey, finished with a beautiful gold wax seal.

The stunning bride and her bridesmaids, Jennifer, Sally, Jana and Katie, started their day early with professional hair styling with Jansen Hinton and professional makeup artistry by Victoria Alexander, both with Vixen salon in West Monroe, LA. The ladies pampered 166 JUNE 2018 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM

themselves with mimosas and enjoyed visiting with each other before the ceremony. Each bridesmaid wore a different style in neutral toned tulle dresses with a luxurious floral sequined lace detail. The dresses were designed

by Amsale for Bella Bridesmaids.

The dashing groom stood expectantly at the alter awaiting his bride. Standing with James were his groomsmen, Paul, Lennon, Chris and Thomas, who all wore tuxedos designed by Joseph Abboud for Jos. A. Bank.

Making a guest appearance for the ceremony, Miriam and James’ dog, Nola, stepped in as flower girl, wearing a custom flower crown designed by Plum Nelly Flower Farm in Coushatta, LA. Plum Nelly Flower Farm also carefully crafted the boutonnieres and other floral arrangements. All flowers were grown on the farm and hand picked by the resident florists. Attached to the bride’s bouquet was

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her grandmother’s vintage comb, her something old, borrowed and blue.

The blushing bride was escorted down the aisle by her handsome father. Miriam found her perfect gown and veil at Fabulous Frocks in Shreveport, LA. The luxurious crepe gown was fitted with a strapless, sweetheart satin bodice and mermaid flair skirt. The chic dress, while simple in nature, needed very little assistance, only to be accessorized with the beautiful, cathedral length veil with floating appliqued petals and pearl beads. Theia designed the beautiful, ivory gown and long, delicate veil. Her feet were adorned in luxurious plum velvet pumps designed

by Nine West. Elegant music surrounded Miriam, James, family and friends, provided by the talented musicians, Robin and Scott Baggarly on violin and piano.

Following the ceremony and family portraits, Miriam and James enjoyed private time with each other and their sweet dog, Nola, while taking portraits with Madeline Weatherford of Madeline Grace Photography, LLC. The guests and family moved the festivities to the Vantage State Building Rooftop Garden, where they were greeted with a beautiful décor, wonderful food and amazing music. Succulent centerpieces were scattered amongst the tables on the rooftop patio. The Fat Pelican brought in hors d’oeuvres and a buffet full of luscious meats and savory dishes. The bride had a delightful 5-layer cake from Classy Cake Creations, adorned with an adorable custom cake topper created by Susan Coates, while the groom chose a handsome collection of duck themed cupcakes from Small Cakes in Monroe, LA.

The night offered a good time for guests with music from the Josh Madden band. The band had a creative selection of songs that had guests moving the entire evening. Two bars were set up for guests, to get drinks, alcoholic beverages provided by Tonores and Flying Tiger brews, served by Nate, Jessie and Acea. The bar was decorated with mini llama piñatas and a hand-decorated drink menu created by Miriam’s father, James. The night ended with an exciting sparkler exit, surrounding Miriam and James with love from family and friends.

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The Side Effects of a Boudoir Session The Black Label Boudoir

BY MADELINE WEATHERFORD

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S BOUDOIR SESSIONS BECOME more popular, I have been confronted with questions and worries from women. I am constantly asked, “What are the pros and cons?” and “Why should I waste my money, when I do not like what I see?” To be totally honest, those are amazing questions, and my answer is usually the same for everyone… There are pros and cons and every woman is different. Boudoir may or may not be the right session for you. But it is my job to discuss every aspect and make you feel comfortable before proceeding. If you are discussing boudoir with another photographer, please make sure they give the same courtesy.

I can make a list of all the reasons why you should consider having your own boudoir experience, but I feel like that list could be found all over the Internet. Instead, I will let you in on a bit of the experience... the feelings

and side effects from a boudoir session. And let me tell you, it is not what you would expect.

One of my favorite “side effects” is the sense of empowerment my clients walk away with. They feel amazing, because they have been fully informed and had a say in the complete planning of the session. They feel gorgeous after spending time with talented and professional hair and makeup artists, such as Victoria Alexander and Jansen Hinton with Vixen Salon, Brittany Dye from The Parlor House and more. By the time they even get to me, they are experiencing positive and fierce feelings from being pampered that all I have to do is assist them in posing and work behind the camera. Rarely do I leave a session without a million questions about when they can see their portraits and exclamations of excitement.

They usually go on and spend the rest of their day with friends and family or follow up with a bridal session.

Another favorite side effect is the relationship aspect. On many occasions, women have mentioned their fear of intimacy or lack of confidence. Fortunately, boudoir is a type of photography used to capture a woman’s beauty, passion and intimacy to make her feel confident and sexy. That reason tends to make a woman flourish in her relationship with her spouse. Let’s be honest, it is hard to be a loving wife if we do not feel good about ourselves.

Boudoir is not a fix or a relationship healer, but it does help us see ourselves differently. That is an extraordinary and remarkable experience.

If you have questions of your own or have taken an interest in your own custom boudoir experience, feel free to email me at hello@ theblacklabelboudoir.com.

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Early to Wed ALEXIS VICTORIA GUICE AND LANCE TYLER ALBIN MARRIED IN A SOUTHERN MORNING WEDDING

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lexis Victoria Guice and Lance Tyler Albin began their married life on a cool, crisp April morning.

Alexis, daughter of Stacy and Jon Guice of Monroe, and Tyler, son of Ida and Lance Albin of Bush, Louisiana, were united in marriage on Saturday, April 7, 2018, at ten o’clock in the morning at First United Methodist Church in Monroe, Louisiana.

Photographer Desiree Gooding captured images of the couple’s “first look” in the church courtyard as they enjoyed a special moment of privacy in the early morning light before the wedding ceremony. Family and friends from near and far gathered in the sanctuary which was cast in a kaleidoscope of soft color from intricate stained glass windows. A simple wooden cross draped with white fabric served as a focal point and was flanked on each side by romantic

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floral arrangements in hues of cream and pink accented with fresh greenery. Guests enjoyed instrumental music performed by Julian Jones (piano) and Marcy Hall (harp) as they awaited the bride’s entrance. Charlotte Guice, sister of the bride and maiden of honor, designed custom wedding programs featuring her original watercolor painting of the church. The original painting was framed and presented to the couple as a gift.

Alexis selected a classic ivory pleated tulle ball gown with a chapel length train.

The gown featured an illusion neckline and cap sleeves, a silk satin bodice embellished with elegant scroll lace detail, and was complemented by a two tier fingertip veil of ivory tulle with organza ribbon trim.

She carried a hand-tied bouquet, featuring strawberry hydrangeas, white fringed gerbera daisies, pink astilbe, Mikado roses,

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and salal. Her maternal grandmother’s antique cameo brooch was pinned to the bouquet. The bridesmaids wore blush faille brunch length dresses and clutched bouquets fashioned after the bride’s. The groom and gentlemen in the bridal party sported tan suits, blush pink bowties, and whimsical blue and pink checkered socks.

The ceremony was under the direction of Denise Hardy . Reverend Kem Alexander served as officiate. During the ceremony Alexis and Tyler exchanged vows and wedding bands – his an heirloom gold band passed down from his father and paternal grandfather, and hers a guard of two pavḗ diamond bands to complement her timeless solitaire engagement ring.

Gregory Hudgins and the In Great Detail team orchestrated a perfect Southern brunch reception at Bayou DeSiard Country Club.

Guests indulged in Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s, while awaiting the arrival of the newlyweds.

Trays of candied bacon and vegetable frittatas were circulated among the crowd. A delightful array of pastries and sweets, including delicate pastel French macarons and a donut hole croquembouche was offered together with a coffee bar.

The couple arrived at the reception in a vintage car chauffeured by Jeff Johnson. White clothed tables were set around the perimeter of venue and featured lavish floral arrangements incorporating an assortment of fresh spring flowers and botanicals. Guests enjoyed offerings of traditional Southern brunch fare, including a grits station with grillades and shrimp, carved ham, a biscuit bar with an array of jams and jellies, chicken and waffles, and an assortment of fresh, seasonal fruit. The bride’s cake was a six-tiered creation of Uptown Downtown in Ruston. The cake featured alternating layers of strawberry with cream cheese filling and almond with apricot filling, and was iced in decadent buttercream frosting garnished with a cascade of fresh flowers. The groom selected a chocolate and butter marble cake with a patriotic theme.

Guests danced the afternoon away to the high energy sounds of Louisiana Soul Revival.

Guests looked on as talented local artist, Joni Dollar, captured the couple’s first dance in a live oil painting. As the festivities came to an end, wedding favors of fresh local honey from Jennings Apiary were given to each guest, and they blew bubbles to bid farewell to the happy couple. Following the wedding, the couple retired for the evening to the charming, historic John Thomas Bed and Breakfast in West Monroe.

Alexis and Tyler then traveled to New York City for a week of theater, baseball and sightseeing.

Both Alexis and Tyler graduated from LSU Health-Shreveport/School of Medicine in May 2018. The couple resides in Shreveport and in July, Tyler will begin a residency in general surgery and Alexis a combined internal medicine and pediatrics residency at LSU-Health-Shreveport.

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Social Bites of Ruston

The Wedding Cake of Your Dreams and Much More

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WNER HEATHER BAILEY OPENED SOCIAL BITES in 2008 and has been dishing out some of the most magical sweet treats ever since. Located in downtown Ruston, this adorably enchanting shop will have your mouth watering and your taste buds happy. It is the ideal atmosphere for a fun break from daily life, and once you walk through the door, the enticing aroma will be the first thing you will notice. Whether you are needing a wedding cake or simply have a sweet tooth, Social Bites can save the day.

Custom cake orders are a specialty for this sweet shop and are designed to suit any event that you may have. Perfect for weddings, birthday parties, graduations, etc., Social Bites truly enjoys and loves working with customers to create the cake of their dreams. It takes at least 48 hours to complete any custom order.

If you are looking for a quick fix for the day, stop by the shop.

Cupcakes, cookies, brownies, macarons and more are baked fresh daily and are available for pick at any time. Cookie dough, wedding cake and lemon blueberry are among some of their more popular cupcake flavors

Having an event? Social Bites has the perfect venue! They host bridal showers, birthdays, baby showers, meetings and more! Their packages start at just $100. From cupcake decorating parties to

princess parties their upstairs loft area is perfect for hosting a small gathering of friends and family to celebrate all occasions.

Social Bites caters to special dietary needs. They provide glutenfree, as well as some vegan and paleo options. Just because you may have a restricted diet, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a sweet treat every now and then.

Call Social Bites today to plan your dream wedding cake, schedule a birthday party or simply see what flavors are offered.

Find them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Social Bites 106 West Park Avenue • Ruston, Louisiana (318) 251-2483 Tues - Fri 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. www.socialbitesofruston.com

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Simply Lou Cat Tails Minus One article and illustration by Lou Davenport original drawing, prismacolor on paper

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t seems as if I have always had a cat or cats around. I’m not really sure how they all came to be, but, I seem to attract them. I’m by no means a “cat whisperer,” but they just seem to find me. When I first moved to Monroe, I actually had no cat! Word must have gotten out, because before I knew it. “Albert” appeared and stayed. He was a “serial killer” of baby birds, so when I moved to Ruston, I took him along. He was deliriously happy being “on the hunt” over there, and the poor birds never had a chance. He finally just disappeared, and I wondered did a hawk get him? One of those “karma” things would have served him right!

Right now, I only have four of my own which I affectionately call, “The Brat Pack.”

I take full responsibility for them being spoiled rotten. I say that “they” just let me “live here with them.” They just use me for food. But I’m a sucker, and I love every one

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of them.

All of mine have been “rescued” and all are spayed and neutered. But, in my neighborhood, there’s a lot of cats. All the “unwed teenage” mothers seem to come to my house to have their babies. I guess I’m the “labor and delivery” room. Right now, two little kittens are playing out back, and I am dying to get my hands on them. They are still a bit skittish, but I’ll win them over. Food is the key! There’s also another “mother” almost ready to deliver her little darlings.

She’s already sleeping on my deck, and, yes, of course, I feed her. I do try to provide good prenatal care!

My oldest cat, Peanut, or “HRH Peanut” as she prefers to be called, is the boss lady around here. Being a “red tabby” she is very chic! She thinks it is her duty to wash all the others’ faces, and they better let her or she gives them a stern slap! She has her special place where she sleeps on the back of the

couch, and nobody may lay there except her!

She came to me by way of another “unwed teenage mother” that I took in. Little did I know there would soon be 5 babies to be delivered! I did watch them all be born, and Peanut was the last one and the runt of the litter. I even had to give her a bottle to make sure she got enough to eat. So, she is a little bit special to me. She purrs louder than any cat I have ever heard! But, other cats don’t cross her! She’s got “attitude!” Peanut definitely is “Her Royal Highness!”

Next, came Otis, or “Otis the Tormentor” as I call him. He was the only kitten to live through a fox killing his whole family. I found him out in the yard and have no idea how he survived. I thought he was dead when I saw him out in the grass. Maybe he was traumatized. I just know he is spoiled rotten and so bossy and demanding! Otis drives me crazy! He’s a beautiful Persian mix, black with green eyes. Between his black paws he has white tufts of fur. I call them his “spectator shoes,” and he is quite “dapper.” Otis thinks he is supposed to drape himself over my arm, when I’m trying to type. We argue, of course, and it takes lots of willpower on my part to convince him he cannot help me! (I really want to throw him across the room!) He thinks the pillows on my bed belong to him, so we have the “pillow fight” every night. I even got him his own pillow, but, that’s not nearly as much fun as pestering me for mine! I made the mistake of brushing him to help keep his fur from matting. I created a monster. Now, he must be brushed at least once daily, and he aggravates me until I just give in and brush him. I think I hear him giggle! He is very vain!

Next, came “the yellow tabby brothers.”

My daughter, Paige, took in an “unwed teenage mother” who presented her with five beautiful little babies. It took one look from me at the two yellow ones, and I was “tee totally” in love. One has a tail, “Angus” and the other has no tail, “Lil Rod.” They are the clowns of this pack of brats! “Angus” is huge and is scared of just about everything. I have no idea why, but, he is also my little “love man” and gets beside me every night and watches TV with me. He has to get brushed, when Otis gets brushed, too. Otis doesn’t care for that but, so far, he just accepts it with a dirty look or two. “Angus” is a “jumper” and that, cat can leap 6 feet in the air! He’s the athlete I suppose. The higher place he can get himself to, the better. He sleeps on the very top of an old wardrobe I have.

Angus is “the talker,” too. I carry on some real serious conversations with him. (Yes, I

do talk to my cats, but so far, they have not talked back, well, only in “cat language”) He can tell you some mournful stories or some very funny ones. And I do think he cusses, I know “Lil Rod” and “Otis” do! Otis has not been the best of role models for two youngsters!

Now, “Lil Rod” is a mess! He is so cute and he knows it!

I definitely gave him a lot of self confidence. “Lil Rod” is not the most graceful of cats and he loves to run, jump, miss his mark and make a big mess! He tries to climb up and sit on the deer head I have. He loves to use his paw to slide my drawing pencil off on the floor. I pick it up, put it back and he does it again! So much fun for him, so annoying for me! “Lil Rod” probably knows everyone in the neighborhood, because he wakes up, eats and goes on “his rounds!”

Thankfully, he is very well liked. “Lil Rod” is my best helper in the yard. He is a master hole digger and fertilizer! He does have the good manners to cover it up, thank goodness. And, I must admit, he might be my favorite. I always have had a thing for the “bad boys!”

I have one more cat that I really cannot claim as my own anymore, but, without me, he wouldn’t be here! I kept hearing a kitten crying out back and couldn’t figure out where it was coming from. It was pouring down rain. I finally saw a little black and white spotted kitten out in the liriope, all alone and crying his head off! I immediately ran out, got him and bundled him up in a towel. I named him “BoBo.” Looking back, I can see that his mother probably left him out there, because he was so bad! I de-flea-ed him and fattened him up, and he seemed to be a happy little camper. I just loved him. Even Peanut and Otis accepted him into their “inner circle.” “BoBo” had it made, and I had made another successful rescue! Or so I thought....

I got busy and didn’t get “BoBo” to the vet to be neutered in time.

He discovered the great outdoors! And all the ladies. He dumped me! He’s turned to a life of low morals and standards. I assume he

thinks he is the neighborhood “Pimp Daddy!” He’s all over the place sharing his charms! He still walks through my yard, and I call out to him. He looks but keeps on “struttin’ his stuff” with his nose in the air! So, he is no long called just “BoBo,” he is “BoBo, you Ba#@*+d!”

He could care less! Like I said, I now know why his Mama left him out in the rain!

Funny thing, I think some other tom cat is way ahead of ol’ “BoBo.” I have yet to see a black and white spotted kitten around here yet. I guess time will tell.

Cats really are fascinating creatures. Each one is different, especially in their personalities, just like us! Check out some of this cat trivia: • A cat will never break a sweat, because it has no sweat glands.

• A cat spends 30% of its time grooming.

• A group of kittens is called a “kindle.”

• A group of adult cats is called a “clowder.”

• Most female cats are right pawed, and most males are left pawed.

There is one bit of trivia I read that I don’t think I really believe.

It says that cats do not meow at one another, but they reserve that for communication with humans. Well, when Spring “springs” in my neighborhood, the tom cats start singing like Barry White! So, the “universal songs of love” are alive and well over in my “hood!” They sure aren’t singing to us humans!

See ya next month!

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Iron Cactus Can Cater Any Event

Local Tex-Mex Restaurant Can Accommodate Weddings, Parties and More!

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RON CACTUS HAS BEEN SERVING UP FRESH FLAVOR since 2010 when they opened their first location in Calhoun.

Recently, they opened a second location in the heart of downtown Monroe. Since their inception, Iron Cactus has become a local staple, known for their family friendly atmosphere that people of all ages can enjoy.

For appetizers, they offer their signature avocado dippers, as well as nachos, botanas, franchos, quesadillas and everyone’s favorite – the cactus roll – rice, beans, sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese and your choice of beef, chicken or pork, all rolled in a flour tortilla with pork sauce or chipotle ranch. You can also pick from the standard queso or guacamole dip or branch out with loaded queso, 7-layer or chipotle black bean dip.

For entrees, there are different combinations with enchiladas, tacos, tamales, burritos and chimichagas. But these aren’t your average items. There are pulled pork tacos served with Mexican slaw, baja fresh tacos with fried catfish and shrimp tacos, piled high with fresh shrimp, pico, lettuce and jalapeño cilantro ranch. Signature entrée items include the stuffed avocado – a deep fried avocado with beef or chicken and cheese and the Mexican pizza, a 10-inch tortilla topped with beans, chips, beef or chicken, jalapeños, olives and cheese. In addition to the fajitas fresh from the grill, there are grilled

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shrimp, a 16 oz. ribeye, hamburgers, sandwiches and poboys. Iron Cactus has always been a family friendly atmosphere and the new location is no different. There is even a kids menu for the little niños.

If you work in downtown or just want to pop in for a quick lunch, they have what they call the “Cactus on the Fly.” Lunch patrons can choose from street nachos, two tacos or a rice bowl and get their food in under 15 minutes.

One of the best parts of the downtown location is the patio! In the past few months, it has been the place to go and relax with a libation and listen to some local music. You can even reserve the patio for special events, parties and wedding receptions.

Plus, Iron Cactus offers an extensive catering menu. You can choose from enchiladas, tamales, quesadillas, burritos, cactus rolls and tacos in beef, chicken, cheese, pork, fish and shrimp. You can also select fajitas, hamburgers, Mexican cornbread, chicken tortilla soup and more! If you really want your event to stand out, ask about one of the bars Iron Cactus can provide. They do taco bars, taco salad bars, queso bars and brownie bars. For any catering, just call Brad or Leah and you can discuss a detailed menu and any special requests. They are great at accommodating any ideas and suggestions!

Key Millwork & Supply Co.

Now is the Perfect Time to Complete Your Outdoor Kitchen

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H WHAT MEMORIES! WHO OF US can’t think of a time when the aromas from the BBQ pit would conjure up the perfect combination of fellowship and feasting? Fifty years ago, it would start on a charcoal grill, watching the briquettes to get just the right temperature. Dad would be waiting to throw the food on the grill, Mom in the kitchen prepping the vegetables or side dishes, and kids running around the yard.

Add some extra family or friends and you’d have a quite an evening of casual pleasure. The only damper would be if the temperature got out of control, and “medium rare” turned into “not so well done!”

Wolf outdoor grills are synonymous with perfect grilling! How do they do that?!

When it comes to the top name in cooking appliances, the name Wolf is one of the first that comes to mind. Using both direct and indirect heating, Wolf grills are able to deliver

high temperatures for searing and preheating, while evenly distributing heat with ceramic pods. Everything tastes better al fresco. But the imprecise heat control on most grills can make outdoor cooking a hit-or-miss proposition.

Wolf grills change all that. They give you the same kind of precision control and ease of use features as their indoor counterparts – Wolf ranges, ovens and cooktops. Just imagine the juicy possibilities. The grills range in size from a 30” to a 54” unit.

And now that your meal is going to be cooked to perfection, why not complete your outdoor kitchen by making it possible for Mom to join the group outside. Include a Galley Sink in your outdoor kitchen for the perfect combination. A Galley Sink is more than just a sink. It’s a super-functional, smart and stylish workstation, where you can prepare, serve, entertain and clean up – all in one convenient place. The Galley Workstation is ideal for any

indoor or outdoor kitchen, changing the way people everywhere think about and use their kitchens. The Galley Collection offers a size for everyone. It is available in six lengths and in both single and double bowl configurations.

Accessories include dual-tier colander, upper tier drying rack and round wash sink. Every Galley Workstation is equipped with a wellappointed Culinary Kit – a function-driven set of accessories perfectly proportioned for each Galley. Designed to match every culinary need, this Kit is what makes the Galley the award-winning Workstation that is reinventing kitchens all over the world.

Each Kit is available in your choice of Natural Golden Bamboo, Graphite Wood Composite, Exclusive Gray Resin or Designer White Resin.

No more looking for cutting boards, colanders, bowls or even drying racks, since they’re right there with your Galley! More than a sink, more than a workstation… It provides a way for everyone to enjoy the evening.

Make your outdoor cooking more than a meal. Let Wolf and Galley make it a special time to gather!

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Garden Paradise

JESSICA MARIE TAYLOR AND THADDEUS JERE RYAN, IV MARRIED IN A TROPICAL GARDEN WEDDING AFTER MOVING CEREMONY TO AVOID HURRICANE IRMA

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eptember 16, 2017 – That was the day. The day that Jessica and Thad would have said, “I do!” in the gardens of The Hemingway House in Key West, Florida. Mother Nature had a different set of plans, as Hurricane Irma neared the Florida Keys two weeks prior to the big day. With one hundred guests worried about travel, Jessica and Thad made the decision to move their wedding.

Jessica Marie Taylor and Thaddeus Jere Ryan IV were joined in marriage on September 30, 2017 in the Courtyard of The Bayou DeSiard Country Club. Long time family friend, The Honorable Scott Leehy, officiated the ceremony.

Dino Taylor, brother of the bride, opened the ceremony in prayer.

Jessica is the daughter of Steve and Jeanne Taylor of Monroe. Grandparents

of the bride are Harvey Guillot of Fort Necessity, the late Katherine Stuart of Monroe, and Simmie Wood, and Mary and William Hugh Taylor, all of West Monroe.

Thad is the son of Thad Ryan III and Cynthia Bailey Ryan, both of Monroe.

Grandparents of the groom are Jeanie and Thaddeus Jere Ryan II, the late Katherine “Cissie” Ryan, and Pat Bailey, all of Monroe, and Jackie and Dr. Myron Bailey of West Monroe.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore a breathtaking Maggie Sottero wedding gown with a sheath silhouette and elegant lace appliqués drifting atop tulle with a timeless, romantic sweetheart neckline. She carried a hand-tied bouquet of solidago, peach ranuculus, hypericum berries, white hydrangeas, orange spray and Juliette roses, and other flowers in sunset tones. photography by MARY DAWSON

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Jennifer Taylor Cain and Caitlin Fuller Harrison stood by the bride as her matrons of honor. Bridesmaids were Lily Ryan, Mason Ryan, and Sara Moore Taylor. Landry Taylor was a junior bridesmaid. Mary Margaret Cain, Mae Marie Cain, Mollie Frances Cain and Bailey Taylor served as flower girls.

Nathan Ryan stood by the groom as his best man. Groomsmen were Fred Amman, Louis Luffey, Richard “Trey” McGivern, Johnny Mickel, Richard “Trey” Raymond and Erich Spikes.

Lawson Taylor served as Ring Security.

After the couple said “I do,” guests enjoyed a cocktail hour by the pool that included the couple’s signature drink…a Hurricane! Josh Love provided acoustic sounds for the ceremony and cocktail hour.

Once indoors, the garden theme continued.

Mixed loose arrangements atop antique brass candelabras complemented the custom eucalyptus garland and chiffon swags that adorned the room.

Specialty lighting designed by Gregory Hudgins truly gave the “garden feel” the bride desired for the evening.

A custom display of cupcakes arranged in tiers with antique cut glass cake pedestals of varying heights and styles centered the room.

Guests also enjoyed a southern seafood bill of fare that included oyster shooters, boiled shrimp, catfish and gumbo.

After introductions and first dances, guests loosened up and danced the night away to the sounds of DBM, a 9-piece band from Memphis, Tennessee.

Following the wedding and all of it’s festivities, the couple has made their home in Monroe where Jessica is a Labor and Delivery Nurse at St. Francis Medical Center, and Thad is Operations Manager at Ryan Auto Group.

The couple would like to send special thanks to Gregory Hudgins, Brittnee Phillips, and Patty Fuller for bringing Key West to Monroe for the night! Guests truly felt transported to a tropical garden paradise, and it could not have been done without these key people.

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Stephens Fundraiser The May 5, 2018 re-election campaign kickoff event for Second Circuit Judge James “Jimbo” Stephens at the home of Onna and Alan Gallagher in Monroe was a big success. Judge Stephens thanked Onna and Alan for hosting the party and thanked the crowd for their continued support.

Campaign Committee Treasurer Carmen Sims reported that not only had they met the initial campaign contribution goal for the finance report deadline, but that they had exceeded the goal.

Guests were greeted with a festive Cinco de Mayo theme, along with the Gallagher’s unending and warm hospitality. Angela McBroom, Hope Anderson and Roz Janaway helped Onna and Alan with the impressive decorating both inside the home and outside on their patio and back yard.

On the BayouScene 1 Judge Jimbo Stephens and Onna Gallagher 2 J udge Jimbo Stephens and Orum Young 3R icky Womack and Dr. Sallie Sartor 4 S amantha Miller and Mike Butler 5 S herrif Kevin Cobb, Sheriff Jay Russell and Sherrif Gary Gilley 6 J anet Haedicke, Jennifer Lord, Steve Haedicke and Onna Gallagher 7V icki Krutzer, Judge Jimbo Stephens and Bill Krutzer 8D eacon and Amy James 9A lan and Onna Gallagher, Faith Stephens 10 Joe and Celeste Drost 11 Buckshot and Carmen Sims, Will and Sarah Barham 12 Janet Haedicke, Phil Trahan and Steve Haedicke 13 Carol Martin and Carmen Sims 14 E ric Mahaffey, Sheriff Jay Russell and Sherry Mahaffey 15 Kelsey Williams and Mike Butler 16 Lyle and Lisa Miller, Vicki Krutzer 17 Judge Jimbo and Faith Stephens with Judge Jay and Deanna McCalllum 18 Katy and Doug Wheeler, Judge Jimbo Stephens 19 Robbie McBroom, Phil Trahan and Bill Krutzer 20 J.P. and Karla Christiansen

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Paperglaze Calligraphy Use Unique Hand Lettering to Highlight Your Big Day

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HERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE CUSTOM CALLIGRAPHY to punctuate the special moments in your life - especially your wedding! Shannan Inman from Paperglaze Calligraphy (est. in 2008) has specialized in addressing services, custom invitations and wedding signage for over 20 years.

INVITATION DESIGN

Your wedding invitation should be unique and one of a kind just like you. Paperglaze Calligraphy works alongside area stationers/ printers to craft a custom invitation for each bride. For a truly custom invitation, each component of the invitation suite can be completely written out in calligraphy. Another popular and less expensive option is “spot calligraphy,” which highlights important items (e.g. names and venue) while the rest of the invitation is typeset with a beautiful classic font. More calligraphy details can be added with hand-drawn maps, custom crests and beautifully scripted monograms.

ADDRESSING

There are several reasons why a calligrapher is a good investment in addressing your invitations. First of all, this is one of the most important days your life, and your invitation is extremely special! Many people spare no expense on creating the perfect invitation; however, “the icing (or should I say, “glaze”) on the cake” is the beautiful addressing. It is the first impression of your big day and sets the tone of the celebration to come.

Secondly, a hand addressed invitation signifies that you value your guests and their presence at your wedding. It is wonderful to hear compliments concerning the beautiful piece of mail that they received and how excited they are about your big day.

Thirdly, it is considered good etiquette to have your wedding invitations hand addressed. Labels are highly discouraged, as it often looks both lazy and tacky. An experienced calligrapher will also be familiar with how to correctly address your guests with distinguished titles.

Lastly, and maybe more importantly, a calligrapher saves you much needed time. As a bride, you will be extremely busy planning the many details of your wedding. A calligrapher will be able to use their experience to make your invitations and envelopes look cohesive together, which is another thing you will not have to worry about in your planning process!

WHERE TO START

Once you've narrowed down what services you are needing, email Paperglaze Calligraphy to ask for basic details and a quote. Include your wedding date, approximate guest count and a general description of your wedding style, as well as the services you're interested in (envelope addressing, wedding signage, etc), so you can receive a more accurate quote and timeline. Keep in mind that much like a popular wedding venue, experienced calligraphers book up fast, so start the process early.

E-MAIL - shannan@paperglaze.com • PHONE: 318-914-1116 WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM | JUNE 2018 181

The Electrical Professional Redd Energy Services and Mr. Electric

BY PAUL LIPE

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RIK REDD, OWNER OF REDD ENERGY SERVICES AND Mr. Electric of Monroe and Shreveport, is pursuing to establish his business and provide quality electrical work to North Louisiana.

It has long been his goal to create an opportunity to serve the needs of the public and, at the same time, provide for his family.

Redd graduated from the Louisiana Tech University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Later, in 2010, he passed the professional engineering test and became a Licensed Professional Electrical Engineer in Louisiana that same year.

Erik began his career by working for Texas New Mexico Power Company as a Distribution Electrical Engineer. In that role, he headed up a group that was responsible for rebuilding the power grid of Gulf Port, Mississippi, during the Katrina Recovery. He was also selected to act as the engineering representative for the company safety committee. Following this, he spent three years in Vicksburg, Mississippi, working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the electrical engineering design and operations department. Wanting to come back to his Louisiana roots, he secured employment as Plant Electrical Engineer with Entergy, serving them from 2012-2017. During his tenure with Entergy, he was appointed as compliance lead to the North American Electric Reliability Corporation for generation power

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plant. This varied work experience has prepared Mr. Redd for his new venture.

Redd Energy Services has two divisions: (1) Redd Engineering, which provides electrical engineering services to power generation and industrial sector, and (2) Mr. Electric of Monroe and Shreveport, which offers electrical contracting services for the residential, faithbased, and commercial sectors. Mr. Electric is staffed with professional electricians who are proficient in their trade; in addition, Mr. Redd adds an extra level of technical knowledge that is not available by most electrical contractors in North Louisiana.

The principles, which will govern Mr. Redd’s business have been developed by his growing up in a Christian home, attending Christian schools, and being active in churches where he lived.

Though the challenges of starting a new business are daunting, Erik Redd is confident that his years of training and experience have prepared him to meet those challenges and that, with God’s help, his new business enterprise will prosper. There is a need for the service his company provides, and Redd is enthusiastic about this opportunity to address (service) these needs.

Questions You May Have for Your Florist Petals and Pearls Answers Your Floral Questions

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HE RESPONSIBILITIES THAT FALL under the umbrella of “florist” can vary greatly, and it’s important you get those details ironed out before working out a contract. Work these questions into all of your florist interviews, and we guarantee you’ll walk away feeling confident in your decision.

How would you describe my design style? (e.g. traditional, modern, rustic, organic) • Based on my wedding style, budget and venue, what set of floral arrangements would you suggest for my wedding?

• What would your suggestions be on types of flowers based on my time of year/season, color palette, and budget?

• Are some of the flowers you have suggested more expensive than others for this time of year and my budget?

The above questions can be determined at your appointment with your florist.

If I give you some pictures or invite you to my Pinterest Board, can you duplicate the style and flowers?

At Petals and Pearls, we welcome any pictures, but we LOVE PINTEREST! We will do our best to duplicate as close as possible.

Are the vases included with the price of the flower arrangements or do we rent them for the event?

We include the rental of the vase with the price of the arrangement. We welcome using your own vases as well.

Will you work with my cake designer, if I decide to add flowers to my wedding cake?

Absolutely! If your cake designer prefers to do it herself, we will furnish the flowers to match the venue or we can put them on for you.

What happens to the flowers after the wedding?

At Petals and Pearls, we feel that we have come up with a rather unique solution for this.

We will come and get the flowers, take them back to the shop for re-purposing after your event. We arrange them into smaller containers and distribute them to the local nursing and veterans homes. We feel that this is your first contribution to the community as the new Mr. and Mrs.

We truly LOVE what we do and take each wedding personally. We can work with any size budget and make it stretch. We would love to be a part of your special day and all the organizing. We offer a free first-time consultation for your event. Give us a call today to set up a time that will be best for you.

Happy Wedding Planning,

Denise

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SERVING

HERITAGE FROM HARRY’S SEAFOOD TO BEND OF THE RIVER, DOUG WOOD’S LOVE OF COOKING IS A VALUED FAMILY INHERITANCE. CATFISH CHARLIE’S IS A CULMINATION OF HIS FOOD EXPERIENCE FROM CHILDHOOD TO PRESENT. article by VANELIS RIVERA & photography by TAYLOR BENNETT

CATFISH CHARLIE’S. The name alone promises laid-back, down-home comfort food – meticulously spiced, fried and tasty. Sure enough, walking into the restaurant, the family photos that line the walls will make you feel like you’re visiting relatives.

Love for cooking is the heart of Wood’s business model, a valued family inheritance. Doug’s grandfather, Harry Wood, owned the acclaimed Harry’s Seafood, across from North Monroe Hospital. His uncle owned Bend of the River in Alto, Louisiana, open for about 30 years. Admittedly, it’s in his blood.

“I love cooking for people,” he says.

More of a passion than a job, the kitchen has become Wood’s man cave. On any given week, he’ll go from cooking for his customers to cooking for his family at home. It’s just what he loves to do. Easily, he merits the same acclaim of any chef, but Wood doesn’t care for titles. “I’m not a chef. I hope I never will be,” he confirms.

Instead, he’d rather be known as, “a good ol’ boy that loves to cook a good meal.”

Call him what you will, pride in his food and the satisfaction of his customers is a priority no title can do justice to. “So you won’t get any prima donna” with him.

For Wood, memories and food go hand-in-hand, and that’s what he strives to bring to his menu. The famous thin and crispy catfish is a prime example of serving heritage on a plate. Growing up,

every New Orleans road trip meant a stop at Louisiana landmark Middendorf’s Restaurant in Manchac, Louisiana.

Wood claims it’s the only place to find a perfected “thin and crispy” fillet. His childhood food experience encouraged him to push the dish at Catfish Charlie’s, beginning with perfecting the recipe they had on deck. Their fish is only cooked to order, coming out “piping hot and crispy.”

Perfecting and reinventing have been part of Wood’s modus operandi, since he bought Catfish Charlie’s from former owner Charlie Coleman 10 years ago. He quickly applied what he learned from selling computer systems to restaurants – the common factor of a successful establishment is a present owner, one who is involved in setting the pace for his employees. He’s made things work based off his attention to growth.

What began as the main dining area, eventually expanded into event rooms which were once adjacent stores. The two spacious event rooms are separated by French doors, an ideal space for wedding rehearsal dinners. The roms have become so popular that they get reserved at least 4 to 6 times per week for a variety of events.

Bridging the gap between indoors and outdoors is an inviting deck, providing optimal dining al fresco, Louisiana weather permitting. The restaurant space evokes his love for “serving good food to folks and sharing life in that way.”

Good food is not hard to find in the Catfish Charlie’s menu. The two most popular and unique appetizers are their thin purple onion rings and the fried dill pickle slices. The homemade mozzarella sticks and the hand-breaded alligator bits have been a “whopping successes” as well. High on customer picks are the shrimp and fillets combo baskets and the oysters. Their most recent “big hit” has been their ‘10 under $10’ lunch special, served daily until 3 p.m. This great value point has has become 90% of their lunch orders and features some of their most popular sellers, such as the thin and crispy catfish, po’ boys, popcorn shrimp baskets, red beans and rice, and crawfish étouffée. Topping off their southern favorites is their crawfish, “the way it’s supposed to be done,” all seasoning in the water.

Skimming the menu reveals as many traditional items as those on the more eclectic side, which can be found in their Saucy Specialities. Their number-one seller is the Catfish D’Arbonne, a succulent 5 oz catfish fillet, fried, grilled or blackened, on a bed of rice with a crawfish cream sauce. “Ticket after ticket after ticket,” exclaims Wood, has at least one Catfish D’Arbonne on it. Not to be missed is the Shrimp Alfredo made with their homemade alfredo sauce and blackened shrimp on a bed of fettuccine noodles. Wood warns that it’s got a kick, without being too offensive, just enough to let you know it’s not a traditional alfredo. Finally, their Shrimp and Grits, inspired by a dish Wood tried at Dunleith Historic Inn in Natchez, MS, are stone-ground grits, sprinkled with fire roasted corn, fried okra and cayenne pepper. All of the grilled or blackened items-chicken, tilapia, catfish, coho salmon, ahi tuna--are seasoned with a local flare of homemade spices. They can be served over a fresh salad or as a plate with grilled veggies and homemade jambalaya.

You don’t want to shy away from their meat items either. Their gourmet Angus burger can be packed onto a sourdough or jalapeño and cheese bun. And their steaks include a 6 oz filet mignon and a 16 oz hand-cut ribeye.

The number one comment about their north Mississippi Delta

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catfish is “Man, that is the second best fried fish I’ve ever had to mine.” Wood attributes this to how he prepares the fish. He fries it like he’s frying at home or at the hunting camp, taking his time. It’s not a line flow to him. They’re not dusting the cornmeal on, throwing it on the fryer, trying to push it out. At Catfish Charlie’s they take the whole 4-5 oz fillet, add the cornmeal and press the cornmeal in. Wood’s thoughtful food preparation has made the difference in presentation and flavor.

It’s not uncommon to have Catfish Charlie’s cater some of the most formal events in town, though one of the aspects of the business that intimidated Wood the most was catering. At the time, he’d never cooked for more than 100 people. Back then, he only had a 14-foot utility trailer he would pull behind his truck. He had to roll the friers into the trailer and strap them down, as well as haul tables and food, only to unload once he got on site. But that all changed thanks to his new on-site catering vehicle, a 26-foot trailer that allows them to travel as far as Arkansas for events.

Wood wants you to know that his menu has progressively transcended the usual southern fried staples. Unexpected additions to the menu, like their juicy burgers, have quickly become fan favorites.

Yet, their wonderful burgers are not the only surprise being dished out. Within the span of a decade, Catfish Charlie’s has been in the wedding game, catering rehearsal dinners and receptions. For some, fried fish and shrimp are not wedding-fare appropriate, but being your own boss means that you can make and break the rules. Wood has been going off his menu for a while now, especially for catered events. A Catfish Charlie’s catered wedding means, “Attention to detail; quality with plenty of quantity” is something you’re going to get every single time.

Thanks to their sister company, Bayou Landing, which is run by his wife, Kaycee Wood, Catfish Charlie’s is incredibly versatile regarding the food they can provide in catering. Everyone loves the boiled shrimp pirogue. Wood has a couple of 5-foot pirogues that

they fill with ice, boiled shrimp, lemons and cocktail sauce. At some events, per request, they’ve crisscrossed the pirogues and served raw oysters on the halfshell alongside the shrimp. Many of their requested catering items are hors d’oeurves-style, such as handsome meat and cheese trays, and fruit platters, as well as larger servings of grilled and blackened shrimp and fish, grilled chicken or shrimp pasta salad (an old family recipe), steaks, crawfish and homemade bread pudding.

A main worry when it comes to catering is whether there will be enough food, but Wood guarantees that when you get Catfish Charlie’s catering you are going to eat at your reception like you would eat at their restaurant, meaning “you’re going to be taking food home in a to-go box.” With his name and company on the line, Wood’s approach is, “We go big, or we go home.”

As a young boy, Wood found that most aspects of his life centered around home-cooked meals, whether it was church events, family reunions or hunting excursions. Even now, especially at the hunting camp, family and friends eagerly anticipate what he’ll bring to meals. If heritage is what you inherit, Wood’s inheritance has been pride in making a good meal and the love of sharing it, honoring his family with each plate served. He is the kind of man that will cook you his specialty shrimp and grits just so you can try them, living up to his father’s advice, “every customer, every time.”

If you are interested in having Catfish Charlie’s cater your next event, call and ask for Vicky Jackson, the “catering lady.” She takes the lead on all their catering.

Visit their main location found in the Office Depot Shopping Center on Louisville Avenue and 165 North in Monroe (318-807-7070) or their second location at 4015 Sterlington Road (318-807-3474).

Follow them on Facebook or visit their website http://www. catfishcharlies.biz.

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Fairytale Wedding CALLI LEIGH SIMONEAUX AND GARRETT KEITH SIVILS MARRIED IN A ROOFTOP CEREMONY

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arrett Sivils proposed to Calli Simoneaux on February 25, 2017 at Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie, Louisiana. But their love story began many years before when they started dating their junior year at West Monroe High School. They both moved to Baton Rouge to continue their education at Louisiana State University. Calli and Garrett graduated from LSU in May of 2015. Calli’s degree is in Biology with a minor in Business and Garrett’s is in Construction Management with a minor in Business. Needless to say, their parents, families and friends were thrilled with the news of the engagement and wedding.

On October 28, 2017, Calli Leigh Simoneaux and Garrett Keith Sivils and their guests enjoyed a beautiful, fun and memorable wedding. The ceremony and reception were held at the newly renovated

and restored ballroom at the top of the Vantage State Building in Monroe, Louisiana. Calli is the daughter of Staci and Jay Mitchell of West Monroe and Danny and Marsha Simoneaux of Baton Rouge and the granddaughter of Bill and the late Mary Lou Albritton and Whitney and Dorothy Simoneaux. Garrett is the son of Keith and Daphne Sivils of West Monroe and the grandson of Veda and the late Leon Sivils and the late Barbara Rollins and Jerry Mason.

The bride wore a strapless, sweetheart neck, detailed lace gown with an elegant train and a cathedral lace veil made by her grandmother. The groom wore a navy suit with an ivory tie. Calli and Garrett’s friends from West Monroe High School, Louisiana State University and Alpha Phi Sorority served in the bridal party. Maid of honor was Emily Stratton, and the bridesmaids were Victoria Marcel, Samantha Tanh, Lauren photography courtesy of ALBRITTON PHOTGRAPHY

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Cooper, Lindsey Sivils, Heather Magee and Courtney Coslor. The ladies wore charcoal dresses and carried white rose and ranunculus bouquets. Spencer Hutchinson served as Garrett’s best man with Patrick Mims, Casey Simoneaux, Phil Karam, Brennan Thompson, Matthew Bourgeois, and Zach Dawes as groomsmen. Nephews Clark Fischer and Griffin Sivils served as ring bearers. The men wore navy suits with white rose boutonnieres. They were all very beautiful and handsome under the soft lighting and floral arrangements and decorating by Westside Flowers and Johnette Mintz.

After the ceremony, the bridal party and guests celebrated with a reception in the same room, spilling out on the balcony overlooking downtown Monroe, Ouachita River and West Monroe. Thurman’s Catering had an expansive array of the bride and groom’s favorite Louisiana foods; the balcony was buzzing with oysters and drinks from Henry Manning’s Oyster Bar. Eat, Drink, Be Merry definitely rang true as guests ate, drank and danced to Flashback Five all night. Friends from home, Baton Rouge and across the country made the event truly memorable.

Directly after graduating Calli worked as a Leadership Consultant for Alpha Phi International travelling all over the US. Twenty-one of her sorority sisters from different universities all came together for a great weekend in Louisiana. They enjoyed the Hamilton House Inn in downtown West Monroe, a wine tasting and tour at Landry Vineyards and taking pictures at Duck Commander. Many of them had never been to Louisiana.

After their honeymoon to Carmel and San Francisco, Calli and Garrett now make their home in Baton Rouge.

Calli is a Project Coordinator for Bearing Point Properties and Garrett is a Maintenance Engineer at Shell. They enjoy their dogs, Carter and Landry, going to Tread, playing tennis and traveling to new places. Their parents and grandparents couldn’t be prouder of them.

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KEDM Director’s Gala The 90.3 KEDM Director’s Gala was held at the University of Louisiana Monroe in the Sculpture Garden on March 24.

The event included tasteful finger foods from the area’s finest restaurants and caterers, an open bar which featured specialty drinks, craft beers and wine, as well as live music and a silent auction. Proceeds from the Director’s Gala benefit KEDM, as well as the ULM School of Visual and Performing Arts.

KEDM is proud to be sponsored by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, Fiesta Nutrition Center, ATMOS Energy, BayouLife Magazine, Kelsey Klean, Sir Speedy and Sammy’s Plant World. A night of music, fun and dancing could not have been possible without the generous donations of these sponsors and many more. Thank you so much to everyone that came out and enjoyed the evening!

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On the BayouScene 1 Caroline and Hugh Youngblood 2 Leigh and John Hersey 3 Tom Hayes and Scott Zentner 4 Georgia and Bill Street 5 Nikki Simmons and Miles Dixey 6 Mason Howard Trio 7M artha Miller, Lyndsay Turner, Corinne Pace, Bonnie Patterson and Sandy Henderson 8N aomi Naquin, Allison Newton, Matt Stewart and Leah Huber 9 Jim Norris, Karen Hayes and Brucie Mintz 10 Alison Tugwell, Jay Curtis and Robin Stephens 11 Leah and Mac Reitzell 12 Angie O’Pry, Julie Griffen and Pam Fritz 13 S arah Wheat and Danielle Glennon 14 Rhonda and Steve Richters and Jay Curtis 15 L atiyara Farris, Emmanuel Capers, Alysa Foster, Hien Nguyen, Brianna Vanderhoeven, Nishant Shrestha and Dwendol Nelson Jr. 16 D .H. Clark, Peggy Burns, Hannah Clark and Alison Tugwell 17 Danielle Kelley Tolbird and Missy Wheeler 15

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Happily Ever After Starts Here Magnolia Mariée Bridal Boutique

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HOOSING A WEDDING DRESS CAN BE ONE OF THE most exciting parts of getting married. Every bride-to-be has an idea of their dream bridal gown, and making that dream come true can be trying. Magnolia Mariée Bridal Boutique has perfected the art of making this process fun, relaxing, memorable and stress-free.

In the heart of downtown Natchez, Mississippi, brides are finding their dream dresses in a handpicked selection of modern gowns fashioned in our classy bridal boutique. The boutique is set on the corner of Main Street and North Canal. Sunlight shines through the grand windows providing beautiful natural light to better view the bride’s selection. Magnolia Mariée carries a great collection of exquisite bridal gowns, veils, hair pieces and jewelry.

Not only do they cater to brides, but also to the whole bridal party. Magnolia Mariée carries a wide variety of Bridesmaid gowns, Mother of the Bride gowns, and they offer Tuxedo Rental. Call to make an appointment and reserve the space for your bridal party.

From the moment you enter their doors, they want to know all about you and your wedding day! They want to know your likes, dislikes, style, vision and most importantly what you want your perfect gown to look like on your perfect day. Your experience at

Magnolia Mariée will be one of the most memorable as you prepare for walking down the aisle. They reserve a two-hour window for you to browse the bridal room, choose your favorites and try on those you love.

Your wedding gown purchase is just the beginning of the experience at Magnolia Mariée. From choosing your dress, to months later when you try on your gown for alterations, they will help you every step of the way. You will receive an unmatched level of customer service and a once-in-a-lifetime experience with your friends and family making the dress selection process as perfect as the day you say, “I do.”

Call 601-446-6400 for an appointment today for a wonderful wedding gown shopping experience!

Everyone has an independent expression of who they are.

It is Magnolia Mariée’s goal to capture the unique quality and personality of every bride – helping you find your happily ever after.

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A Southern Affair

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MADYSON BRIAN AND BROOKS TYREE WERE MARRIED AMID THE BEAUTY OF PARK MANOR

n Saturday, May 5th, Madyson Brian and Brooks Tyree were married with the blessing of their parents, Randall and Lori Brian and Bryan and Jackie Tyree. Family and friends gathered with the couple to celebrate their union amid the beauty of Park Manor Venue in Bastrop, LA.

The wedding venue was decorated by the bride’s parents, her mother’s dear friends, the bride’s aunts and close family as a gift for the bride and groom. The bride’s bouquet, along with the bridesmaids’ bouquets was designed by her mother. The bride’s great grandmother and grandmother were florists, so it is an honor to continue their craft at family weddings.

After the rehearsal the night prior to the wedding, the wedding party and families were treated to a casual southern-style BBQ at the home of the groom’s parents, Jackie and Bryan Tyree, in Start, LA, where everyone enjoyed a

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relaxing time before the big event.

The day of the wedding started with brunch for Madyson, her mother, and her bridesmaids in the bridal suite connected to the reception venue. Following brunch was on-site make-up by Victoria Alexander, then hair by Clair Bower.

The outdoor nuptials took place at 6:00 in the evening in the front yard of the manor led

by Brother Eddy Simmons. The exterior of the manor was adorned with copper eternity rings draped with peonies, eucalyptus and ruscus providing the perfect backdrop to complement the beauty of the Pre-Civil War home. On each side of the columns stood large lanterns lit with candles. Bouquets of white hydrangeas, pink peonies, pink roses and eucalyptus topped each lantern.

The wedding party, the bride’s mother, along with Sloan Carter, daughter of the bride

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serving as flower girl, entered the setting through a custom arch of white hydrangeas and eucalyptus. The bride was escorted by her father, Randall Brian, through a path lined with candles in copper lanterns decorated with pink roses and greenery. The natural beauty of the manor’s garden completed the setting.

After the ceremony, the couple, along with family and friends, walked to the on-site reception room which was decorated with gray tablecloths with a tablescape of copper lanterns and greenery. The room was enhanced with copper eternity rings, pink roses and eucalyptus. The centerpiece of the room was the chandelier decorated with a whimsical arrangement of greenery directly above the table displaying the bride’s cake by Thurman’s Food Factory, who also made the delicious groom’s cake covered in chocolate dipped strawberries. The groom’s table also contained a special request of homemade banana pudding provided by the bride’s grandmother, Maxine Brian.

The guest enjoyed a reception dinner of fish, shrimp, and sides provided by Debbie’s Catering. The tables overflowed into the beautiful back garden of the home.

The setting was so gorgeous, and it allowed plenty of space for young children to move around and dance during the dinner and reception.

During dinner, the bride and groom danced together for the first time as a couple. They were joined by the bride’s daughter, Sloan. The bride shared a special moment with her father for the Father-Daughter dance, followed by the groom’s dance with his mother. The bride also danced with her brother, Jeffrey Brian, while holding her daughter, Sloan.

After dinner, guests enjoyed music by the DJ, Calvin McKenzie. The celebration continued with plenty of dancing and karaoke, which keep the kids occupied. The photographer that captured the day’s events was Pam Dean of Pam Dean Photography, Jena, LA.

The couple departed their celebration under a halo of sparklers held by their family and friends in front of the manor. They were sent off with many well-wishes in their Jeep decorated with streamers, cans and Silly String.

The following morning, the bride and groom, along with family members met at Lea’s of LeCompte, in Monroe, which has become a family tradition after any family event.

After a few weeks, the couple will honeymoon in Jamaica.

The families would like to thank the staff of The Park Manor Venue of Bastrop for their support. They were very gracious and accommodating allowing us to create a memorable event for Mady and Brooks among the beauty of the home and gardens.

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Baldwin’s Antique Jewelry The Finest Antique Wedding Jewelry and Much More

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ANY PEOPLE CHOOSE VINTAGE OR ANTIQUE engagement rings instead of contemporary jewelry because of the history and design of the rings. Just as the contemporary design of rings today dazzle the eyes, the designs of the old can be just as stunning. The old saying, “They don’t make ‘em like they used to” applies to all kinds of products - but especially jewelry. The quality of the jewelry you buy can make all the difference. If you’re looking to buy an antique engagement ring, you’ll want to make sure the stones in the ring are in good condition and without blemishes or cracks. It’s important to assess the ability of the ring to withstand day-to-day wear - so inspecting the prongs and knowing the type of material the ring is made of is important to ensure the diamonds in your antique ring aren’t lost.

At Baldwin’s Antique Jewelry, we’ve selected only the finest antique wedding rings for our customers. You can rest assured that your purchase is guaranteed, and we will work for your satisfaction.

We wish you the best on your engagement! We even offer a few tips on the proposal!

Antique jewelry is both romantic and mysterious. As jewelry, the ring has always symbolizing infinity. They are popular as informal accessories, but antique rings are highly sought after for formal

occasions, such as wedding engagements. Because of the history and unique design associated with the vintage style, antique rings are popular for both men and women.

Antique jewelry delivers great value and unique beauty. Although modern jewelers replicate historical styles, antique jewelry will always be unique. If you are buying an antique piece for another person, consider their preferences, and get feedback from others close to them.

We offer several in house servicing including jewelry repair, insurance appraisals for those new or old pieces and replacing watch batteries and bands. We can custom make that special ring for your special day and custom make so much more. Call us today!

9:30 - 5:30 Monday - Friday • 10:00 - 3:00 Saturday 318-255-1864 102 Park Avenue • Ruston, LA 71270

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Unity in the Community

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Friday, May 11, Ruston celebrated “Unity In The Community� with Rock The Railroad followed by the Ruston Fashion Week Party of the Year on Mississippi Avenue in Ruston! The streets of downtown Ruston were filled with families and friends celebrating their community. Lining the sidewalks were beverage trucks and people sporting the ultra violet color in honor of Fashion Week. The street dance was held on Mississippi Avenue, while a band played on the Main Stage.

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On the BayouScene 1 Heather and Mayor Ronny Walker 2 Travis Lee and Kelly Hogan 3 Pamela Petrus and Zach Stephens 4 Rhett Parker and Emma Haddox 5 Sarah Chestnut and Julianne Tippen 6 Robin Sharp Hume And Jessica Slaughter 7 Holly Odom and Taylor Cappe 8 Amanda Quimby and Jared Carrier

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Moonbeam Fleurs Musings of a Petal Pusher

BY WHITNEY PETERS

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HE GIFTING OF FLOWERS IS AN ancient tradition. Nature’s beauty has stirred mankind since the dawn of time, and the ethereal spirit of the flower is one of Earth’s most beloved offerings.

Ralph Waldo Emerson exhalted that “the Earth laughs in flowers.” The virtue of their petals can speak the words that so often we cannot. When our hearts are overwhelmed with love or grief, a blossom becomes a silent messenger. They honor those who pass before us and tell the stories of our most precious celebrations.

Endlessly fragrant and colorful, each bloom speaks to us with its unique face or form, drawing us in for a closer experience.

I have always cherished those experiences with nature, especially flowers. Those laughs from the Earth truly are healing smiles for life upon it.

The dream of a life among flowers began as a little girl outside. Blessed with summer’s freedom and a pack of cousins, we roamed the outskirts of our neighborhood, daring to venture into the dense woods and along the small bayou looking for anything new to fill our day.

My great grandmother’s backyard often served as home base. It was another world to any creature under five feet. Sunflowers towered over our heads along the fence line, observing our curious mischief. Thick, shifting shapes of color lined the back of her house, and an island of innumerable flowers and tropical leaves formed a perfect circle in the center of the yard.

Sometimes I would hide out in the island, seeking shade or escaping an older cousin’s dare. The scent of lily and gardenia was intoxicating, and from there the magical

world of flora became inescapable.

A desire to share that magic with others is what led me to Moonbeam Fleurs.

I seek to create florals that inspire a sensory experience. From the sweetness of a new baby to the romance of a wedding, from a simple gathering of family to share a meal to honoring the life of a loved one, in each arrangement is the aspiration to turn any significant moment into a timeless memory.

After ten years between Houston and New Orleans, our family moved to Monroe with our new daughter, Sadie, and her brother, Paxton.

After time well spent in both cities, we longed to exhale and be near family. My husband, Nolan Peters, son of Ben and Nancy Kay Peters, is a native and graduate of Neville High School. I grew up just down 1-20 in Bossier City.

I flower from a home studio on the Ouachita River and find the easy pace of nature and it’s passing seasons on the water to be deeply influential in my work. Outside of nature, inspiration comes from music, books and the visual arts. But mostly, I am inspired by the people I love and the belief of passing it on. Each petal certainly holds a smile and a moonbeam for whoever is on the other side of it.

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Fashion Fusion 2018

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Fashion Fusion 2018 was held in the Monroe Civic Center arena on April 28. The Debbie Bourg Dancers coordinated this year’s event with “Road trip” influence.

Sponsored by BayouLife, The Radio People and many more, the participating boutiques showcased spring fashion as the girls (and guys) walked and danced the runway. Rain Salon provided hair and makeup for the dancers as well as the models. The performance, which benefitted the Cancer Foundation League of Northeast Louisiana was truly one to be seen. The music, lights, dancing and style captivated the audience leaving them wondering what the theme will be for next year’s event.

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On the BayouScene 1 E lizabeth Guerriero, Madison Guerriero and Rachel Spiegel 2B rooke Edmonson, Gracie Britt and Lilly Robbins 3K ayla Edwards, Brai Block and Katie Edwards 4 Caroline Milford, Kemper Baugh and Madeline Kent 5 S arah Cox and Cyndi Hanks 6 Eva Horne and Sharon Heath 7 Jessica Pollard and Maureen Crooks 8 Emmy Yates, Mackenzie Grassi and Kaylee Grassi 9C hristy White and Lennie Bordelon 10 Debbie and Lawrence Bourg 11 Danny and Karen Clark, Cindy and Mark Lindstrom 12 M andy LeJean, Logan Green, Stacy Rutledge and Kori Clowers 13 Paula Cumpton, Bay Smith, Lila and Lindsey Cumpton 14 Alise Oliver and Debbie Herrington 15 K im Moore, Sunny Bennett and Caroline Milford 16 Cassie Remington, Caitlyn Bamburg and Kelly Block 17 H olly Brooke Epperson, Larkin Adcock, Kelly Gregory and Jamee Autonberry 18 B rai Block, Samantha Malone, Sydney Martin and Bethany Jordan 19 Jennifer Stephenson and Pam Laird 20 T wila and Randy Head and Jerri Lynn Watts 21 B rad Jolley, Hagen Campbell, Monica Whitman and Teddi Jolley 22 Evelyn and Maryanna Branch 23 Donna Davidson and Carol-Anne Lenard 24 Cerene Arsenault, Brigette Bowes and Falon Tidewell 25 L eslie and Cody Bauman 26 D onna Nolan, Alise Oliver, Valerie Finley, Susan Harwood and Cyndi Foust

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Downtown Gallery Crawl Final Anniversary Celebration Set for June 7th

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he Downtown Gallery Crawl rounds out the 10th anniversary celebrations with one final blowout party, Thursday, June 7th! From 5-9 p.m., all nine galleries of the Downtown Arts Alliance will be hosting special exhibitions while lots of exciting activities will be happening outdoors. Bring your friends and family to this totally free event and celebrate these talented artists from across Northeast Louisiana. And to top it off, there will be live music, food and drinks to keep you crawling from one gallery to the next!

“Good Old Summertime” will be brought by the resident artists of Sugar Gallery on Art Alley. Art that embraces sunshine, travel and Louisiana will be on display for all to enjoy.

Artists include Douglas Breckenridge, Melanie Douthit, Leah Reitzell, Harpstrings Jewelry, Scott Stone, Burg Ransom and Chris D. Cox. To the left of Sugar, Arender Studio + Gallery will be shaking it up with new and exciting work, curated by Brad Arender. And

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to the right of Sugar, The Downtown Gallery will showcase Director and Curator Ricky Sikes’ thesis work, as he completes his Masters in Fine Art from LA Tech.

The Upstairs Gallery, directed by Emily Caldwell, will host “Landscape and Flux,” featuring paintings and sculptures by Hannah Taylor and Daniel Moore. Right across the hall, The Big Room Gallery, directed by Anna Rowan, will host Mary Helen Blanchard.

Blanchard is an author and native of Monroe, launching the 2nd edition of her children’s book: Shirley’s Story - The Heart Always Remembers. The Big Room Gallery will also host work by its open studio artists Leigh Buffington, Emily Caldwell, Jenny Ellerbe and Amanda Roe.

Before leaving Art Alley, be sure to visit The Outside Gallery’s installation (facing the railroad tracks), featuring work by Curator, Amanda Roe. Roe’s exhibit titled “The Social Norm” is filled with painted gas masks,

rainbows and thumbs up.

Just block away from Art Alley, The Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau and BayouLife Magazine are partnering once again to host their 11th annual photo contest. The finalists and winners will be on display at the Palace Gallery. The Palace will also be showing last year’s winner, Caleb Bostick.

Catch a ride on one of the free golf-carts to visit The Garrett House (on South Grand by the RiverMarket), directed by Brooke Foy. The Garrett house will be exhibiting “reCLAYmed”

by ULM BFA student Alyssa Guidry.

Finish up the night on Antique Alley with RUMO’s Gallery. Curator Austin Bantel will be bringing in a solo show by Victoria Smith, titled “A Red Robin.” This colorfully done and whimsically illustrated narrative takes a look at how similar our human behavior is to that of animals. RUMO’s is owned by Morgan and Rusell Moore.

The artists of the Downtown Arts Alliance, as well as their appreciative public, sincerely thank the always-generous DAA sponsors. For information on levels of support and benefits, see the organization’s website at www.downtowngallerycrawl.com.

The next Downtown Gallery Crawl will be Thursday, August 2, 2018, when the Downtown Arts Alliance opens another exciting round of shows.

Our Dental Family Caring for Yours Eddleman Dental: Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

BY DR. MARY KATHRYN CRIGLER

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S A PARENT, YOU HAVE A LOT TO KEEP UP WITH. Whether you have one child, or a carful, work full time or stay at home, you’re likely going in a million different directions all at once. Sound familiar? It does to us, too! With family, work, school, church, sports and meetings, it’s hard to keep up! Rewarding? Yes! But still challenging and finding the balance can be hard. Simplify your schedule by keeping your family at one dental office – OURS!

We are often asked if we see children at our practice, and the answer is YES! We can treat ALL members of your family, from your little ones visiting the dentist for the first time to your teens, to you and your spouse, and even to grandparents. Having one office for your family makes it easier to find time for appointments. It’s also easier to get comfortable with a dental family your entire family sees. You know exactly what kind of dental care each member of your family is getting, so there are no surprises.

We believe that your young child’s first dental visits set the tone for a lifetime of positive dentistry. We have families of our own, so we understand how important it is to build great relationships with our youngest patients. Having good communication with both children and parents ensures visits are successful and encourages great dental habits at home. Prevention is our priority!

As your child grows, we evaluate their growth every time we

see them to identify any dental or skeletal issues like crossbites, malocclusion, tongue-ties or airway issues that can prevent normal development. When we consistently see your child, we become very familiar with their smile’s form and function, allowing us to diagnose and begin treatments in the earliest stages or collaborate with our area’s awesome specialists if needed. This means your growing child is less likely to experience severe issues and more likely to achieve a healthy smile for a lifetime.

Exhausted, Mom? Whiter teeth, Botox or a Smile Makeover can give you a little pep in your step making it at least LOOK like you had a full night’s rest. Zoom! Whitening, Botox Cosmetic and DuraTHIN PREPLESS Veneers are just a few of the services that we offer that can make you feel great. Dr. Eddleman, Dr. Cassis and myself are among a handful of dentists in Northeast Louisiana who are specially trained in DuraTHIN PREPLESS Veneers. If you are a candidate, you will leave with a beautiful, more youthful and natural smile. WIN, WIN!

At Eddleman Dental, we truly are a family, and we invite you and your family to come be a part of ours. Let us SHOW you the difference.

Schedule your consultation today. Mention this article and receive a FREE cosmetic, implant or Botox consultation! Remember, Your Smile is Our Passion, so call us today!

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Southern Sunless Tanning Spray Tanning for Your Big Day

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NCE YOU’VE SET THE DATE, and picked your gown, now is the time to call and book your spray tan for the big day! Spray tans can help enhance your natural beauty and help to accentuate your gown. Spray tanning is different from UV tanning, as it requires some prep work and planning.

Once you’ve decided to get a spray tan, consider if you want to include anyone in your bridal party. Once you’ve decided, call and book a trial run for you/or your group.

This should be done 3-6 months prior to your wedding. This allows you to be able to go over all the rates, pre-tan instructions, and timing for getting everyone a test spray tan to be sure that everyone has the best color results possible. Here at Southern Sunless Tanning, we want you fully educated on preparing your skin for your spray tan, so that you get the best results possible. We also want you maintaining

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your skin’s health leading up to your big day, because healthy skin tans best. This way if you enjoy your tan and color, you can book subsequent appointments for events such as bridal showers, photoshoots, engagement parties, etc.

Once you’ve had a trial run, we will then book your final session for the big day.

Typically 3 days prior, we will ask you/ your bridal party to do a deep exfoliation, shave, wax, have any manicures, pedicures and facials all done a minimum of 24 hrs prior to your spray tan. Then, 2 days before your wedding day, we will come and spray you and/or your bridal party. After being sprayed, each individual will wait 1-3 hours depending on desired depth of color and then do a warm water rinse. After rinsing off with just warm water, you’re able to return to normal activities and your color will be fully developed once you reach 24 hours after being sprayed.

This typically puts you the day of the wedding and you’re now ready to go! No extras to think about, no worries about cosmetic bronzers getting on your dress and ruining your photos, no trying to squeeze in a spray tan during rehearsals and set-up!

Here at Southern Sunless Tanning, we make sure that any event you need to be tan for is booked out in a way that makes sure you’re covered. We always keep you informed on all the pre and post instructions, you have access to us 24/7, and work hard to meet all your spray tanning needs. Contact us today for further details!

Be sure to check out our work on BayouLife’s cover model, Eva Edinger!

Thanks to Kalyn Red for modeling, and Ruffled Feathers Photography LLC for the fabulous pictures!

The Best Dining on the Bayou Waterfront Grill on Bayou DeSiard

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OR MORE THAN 20 YEARS,THIS LOCAL RESTAURANT has been one of Monroe Louisiana’s favorite places to dine. With a casual setting on Bayou DeSiard and a menu featuring the highest quality steaks and assortment of savory seafood dishes, it’s not hard to see why Waterfront Grill has lasted so long. The Weems family has mastered the grill and has created a special niche that customers find delectable.

Waterfront Grill has perfected their menu with items that can appeal to any clientele, all without the use of a single frier. One of the most popular dishes of on the menu is the Catfish DeSiard, which was once featured in Southern Living Magazine. This dish consists of baked catfish topped with seasoned bread crumbs, green onions, Parmesan cheese, mushrooms and shrimp and is truly a mouth-watering combination of flavor and textures.

However, the rising star of this restaurant would have to be the Grilled Pork Chops. These frenched, center cut pork chops are made from a premium selection of meat and are char-grilled flawlessly, harnessing the flavors of the seasoning and the natural juices. It comes with two eight-ounce bone-in pork chops, totaling sixteen ounces, and is paired well with a side dish and toasted french bread.

A side cup of their amazing gumbo puts this entrée above the rest.

Pork chops may not be your first choice when dining out, but you would be missing out if you didn’t try these.

Waterfront Grill has evolved over the years and will continue to evolve, to ensure that this family restaurant remains a local favorite.

Providing gluten free options, Waterfront strives to accommodate each and every one of their customers. Every aspect of the restaurant is infused with a sense of community and hometown pride. The walls are adored with ULM memorabilia, large windows on the back wall provide views of the patio overlooking the bayou, and the cuisine itself is a statement of Louisiana.

With its casual atmosphere, upscale menu, consistently pleasing staff and philanthropic attitude, Waterfront Grill combines quality food and consistent service to its customers. You can find them next to ULM’s campus at 5201 DeSiard St., open 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. MondaySaturday or simply call-in your order at 318.345.0064

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Dotting of the Eye Ceremony On Friday, May 11, Dragon Boat Festival Teams participated in the ceremonial Dotting of the Eye ceremony and runners joined in during the Draggin’ Tails Fun Run, presented by Fleet Feet Monroe. During the “Dotting of the Eye” ceremony, teams competed in a spirit competition to see who got the honor of “Dotting The Eye.” The fun run and ceremony were sponsored by First National Bank - The Uncommon Bank, Choice Brands, Inc., Southern Beverage Company, Entergy and Aetna.

This was a fun night to kick off the Dragon Boat Festival!

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On the BayouScene 1 Russell and Julie Kicey 2 Stan and Hope Karr 3 Mary Honeycutt and Kim McTurner 4 Chasidee Baker, Alex Albritton and Tyler Cory 5 Bryce Hale, Ceasar, Allison and Isabella Camacho 6 Cynthia Rodriguez, Sarah Mouton, Lynn Clark and Tami Heflin 7 Clay and Lauren Butler 6

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Century Village

A Message from the Developer

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T’S BEEN A WHILE SINCE YOU’VE heard an update about Century Village. All good things take time, and we’re excited to share our progress with you. Our mission is to build communities that change the way you live. When it comes to Century Village, that’s no exception. Creating Traditional Neighborhood Developments (TND) like this one, that would best serve Monroe, require more attention than your average community. Why? Because every aspect of a TND is important. From selecting the variety of housing types to carefully planned streets and amenities to perfecting the design code, we want to make sure no detail is overlooked.

Location is key for a TND and we are fortunate to be centrally located in Monroe, across the street from CenturyLink’s corporate headquarters. Haven’t seen us? We are located off of HWY 165 at Venable Lane.

Construction on our new entrance road is well underway and we will be celebrating the grand opening later this summer.

Century Tower, located inside of Century Village, is complete and is home to IBM’s new headquarters and the state-of-the-art Century Village Athletic Club. Coming up this summer is the Italian eatery Romacelli Bistro e Vino and your new favorite wine bar, POUR. Looking to relocate your business? We have additional office space available. In Century Village, we do have something for everyone.

Kevin Blanchard, Chief Operating Officer for Southern Lifestyle Development commented, “We have been working diligently behind the scenes with the City of Monroe and all of our contractors and have been pleased to see the project gain the needed momentum over the past months.”

Blanchard also noted, “We are fortunate to

have great partners in the project and their vision and perseverance have demonstrated to us the level of commitment to this project in the community.”

Construction of the residential neighborhood has begun and lots are available for purchase. What’s up next for Century Village? After the completion of our main entrance road off HWY 165, we’ll turn our sights to building out commercial spaces which line the road. These businesses will be the pulse of our neighborhood development.

We are looking forward to growing into our new home and our new community in Monroe. Let’s get to know each other better. Take a peek at the big picture, and download our information packet today at centuryvillage.com.

Stay up to date on our ribbon cutting and community events on Facebook @ centuryvillagemonroe. CenturyVillageLife.com

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Helping Make Memories Steve’s Jewelry in Bastrop

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T STEVE’S JEWELRY THEY BELIEVE THAT THE experience of shopping for an engagement ring is just as important as the purchase. Helping a newly engaged couple find the perfect ring is something they take pride in. The proposal is one of the most memorable moments in a young couple’s life together and is one of the first stepping stones to a happy marriage. Steve’s Jewelry is committed to making sure this process is done beautifully and perfectly.

They understand that there is a lot that goes into choosing an engagement ring. There are many different styles and designer lines, and you also have to consider the bride-to-be’s personal taste in jewelry. Steve’s Jewelry carries a large selection of engagement rings and men’s wedding bands. They look forward to sitting down and assisting couples to better understand what exactly they are buying.

The diamond is the most important part of an engagement ring, and it can be costly. That’s why Steve’s Jewelry likes to take the time to educate their customers before a purchase, so they know what they have and what they are paying for.

Not only do they specialize in wedding and engagement jewelry, Steve’s provides a full showroom of fine jewelry, watches, gift items and more. They are able to do custom work using computer-aided

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design and custom wax carvings. They also have a full jewelry repair workshop to help restore all of your most valued treasures.

At Steve’s Jewelry they believe that the best part of being a jeweler is being able to take someone’s piece of jewelry that has been damaged and make it look new again. Being able to help restore someone’s sentimental items is something the staff at Steve’s Jewelry values most. Their friendly and professional customer service is what separates them from the others. They will go the extra mile to ensure that their customers are pleased with their purchase, jewelry repair or custom design.

For over 40 years Steve’s Jewelry has provided northeast Louisiana with high quality pieces, amazing customer service and fine jewelry. Thanking God for the success of the business, Steve’s Jewelry also acknowledges their customers and is grateful for their business.

Steve’s Jewelry 109 E Madison Ave., Bastrop, LA 318 281 4120 Follow them on Facebook

Corner Vet Introduces Two New Doctors Dr. Kelsey Stokes and Dr. Phoebe Ainsworth Join Local Practice

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ED BY DR. NICOLE WEST, CORNER VET HAS BEEN committed to serving the community for the past year and in the last few months, the clinic has introduced two new doctors – Dr. Kelsey Stokes and Dr. Phoebe Ainsworth. Dr. Stokes is a native of the area and graduated Sterlington High School in 2011. “We are excited to have Dr. Stokes join our practice,” said Dr. West. “She recently graduated from LSU Vet School, and we are excited to have her return to Northeast Louisiana.” Dr. Stokes is even fear free certified, meaning she uses techniques that decrease fear, stress and anxiety in pets.

“I worked with Dr. West several times at the Emergency Vet Clinic, and her work ethic and determination really stood out to me,” said Dr. Stokes. In fact, one encounter stood out in particular. “We were working together, and someone brought a dog in that had stopped breathing,” said Dr. Stokes. There was not a breathing machine available, and Dr. West and I took turns into the wee hours of the night to ensure that it was breathing and survived. That really stood out to me and showed me the depth of her passion.” It was that passion that helped Dr. Stokes make the easy decision to join Dr. West at Corner Vet. “This clinic is founded in faith and treats clients with such passion. I am honored to be a part of it,” said Dr. Stokes.

In January of this year, Dr. Phoebe Ainsworth joined the practice as well. She is a Mississippi State alum, as well as an equestrian athlete.

Upon graduation, she worked with the horses at the racetrack in Bossier City. Originally from Wiggins, MS, Dr. Ainsworth made her way to Northeast Louisiana when her husband accepted a job in Bastrop. Dr. Ainsworth connected with Dr. West and has viewed her as a mentor ever since. “I started out in equine, so Dr. West has been a huge mentor in small animal health for me, and I have learned so much from her,” said Dr. Ainsworth. “I hope to be a quarter of the vet she is!” Dr. Ainsworth not only appreciates the type of vet that Dr. West is but the type of practice that she runs. “This is bigger than a business,” said Dr. Ainsworth. “It is not just about vet medicine but being a part of this community.”

“We are thrilled to have both of these doctors join our practice!” said Dr. West. “It allows us to better serve our clients and patients, by providing more hands on and direct care.” But while they have added two new doctors, Corner Vet’s focus and clinic vision have not changed.

“Our goal is be the small town vet and a vital part of this community.

We will continue to know every client on a first name basis and have a welcoming, hometown feel.” While Corner Vet does offer routine vet exams and visits, they are much more than that. They truly are full of compassion, committed to their community and dedicated to providing comprehensive care. Stop by and say hello or give them a call and set up an appointment!

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West Monroe Convention Center

Specializing in Weddings and Special Events

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EDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS OF ANY SIZE CAN be accommodated by the West Monroe Convention Center, owned and operated by the City of West Monroe. Serving the public for over 35 years, the Convention Center offers a versatile banquet hall suitable for weddings, receptions and parties from 100 to 1,000 guests. Our hall can be subdivided to accommodate both your wedding and reception with ease. No need to lead your guests from one location to another when our facility can provide rehearsal dinner plans, formal wedding arrangements and lavish reception parties, all in one convenient location.

On-staff Event Coordinators are available to assist with menu planning and dĂŠcor to suit any budget. In-house catering staff is also available to offer popular regional cuisine or customizable themed event menus. Executive Chef Mo Christy offers our customers a unique, quality experience, unlike any facility of this kind in our region.

In addition to the main Conference Halls, the Convention Center offers smaller dining rooms for more intimate Bridal Showers, Rehearsal Dinners, or even the occasional Bachelorette Party. Theme parties are always welcome and we offer in-house bar services to insure your party gets as lively as you want it to be. We also cater outside the facility and can come to your location in the area and provide catering, servers, bartenders, tables, linens, chairs and more.

We are excited to offer online event floor plan design, and guest registration. With this great tool, clients will be able create their own layout or approve our in house design online or with their smartphones. The software will also allow clients to arrange seating charts for events requiring RSVPs or track registrations. This new tool will even allow clients to see their 2D floorplan design rendered in 3D. These features and more we hope will allow brides and decorators more detailed information to plan the event of their dreams.

Call for an appointment today to speak with one of our Event Coordinators who’ll assist you with menu planning, event planning and work within your budget.

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garden party Looking for the perfect attire for a summer party? Choose an outfit that is cool, yet classically elegant.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MOORE CLARK MUAH BY MEKA BENNETT

RON ALEXANDER CLOTHIERS FOR MEN Ronnie wears a tan seersucker suit with a blue pinpoint oxford shirt and paisley tie with a paisley pocket square.

Ellie is wearing a vintage dress from Paper Doll Vintage located inside Southern Style Antiques.

MODELS: ELLIE JACKSON AND RONNIE SCOTT, JR. SPECIAL THANKS TO FAITH AND DR. DARYL MARX FOR THE USE OF THEIR GARDEN

ELEVEN 26 BOUTIQUE Ellie is pretty in pink in this magenta dress that features a ruffled sleeve on one shoulder and spaghetti strap on the opposite.

Keep the look chic with a simple black suede strappy sandal. Accessorize with a gold cuff, earrings and gold statement necklace.

GIRLFRIENDS 2 This gorgeous floral dress features a criss-cross neckline and keyhole back.

These sandals feature a super trendy fringe detail with attractive metal hardware and a stacked heel. Accessorize with gold hoop earrings.

ROSE BOUTIQUE This lovely embroidered lace kimono duster is layered over a coral, linen Match Point sleeveless dress for a cool, sophisticated look.

Accessorize with a classic pearl and crystal necklace.

HERRINGSTONE’S Looking for a classy and sophisticated outift?

This jumpsuit features a deep v -neckline, high waistline and flowy short sleeves, Dress it up with a neutral heel with open toe silhouette, pink agate earrings with raffia tassels and a gold leather envelope clutch.

RODÉO BOUTIQUE This form-flattering dress has a one-shoulder bodice accented with a relaxed double ruffle. Add a blush leather heel that hits the right midpoint between innocence and edge and black, gold and clear disc earrings.

Glow Body Sculpting Get Ready for Your Big Day!

BY BRITTANY SOTO

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LOW BODY SCULPTING CANNOT WAIT TO GET YOU wedding-ready, honeymoon ready, or just ready for the summer!

And it is NOT too late! We have clients that lose inches and weight in their very first sessions!

At Glow Body Sculpting, we offer an innovative and non-invasive approach to weight loss, inch loss, detoxification and becoming a more youthful you! To obtain amazing results, we offer three main services with plenty of options to do just one, combine two or package all three together. We offer Glow LED Lipo Lights, which is safe, painless and completely non-invasive LED light technology that targets troubled areas of the body and safely shrinks fat. Many clients, although some do them separately as well, will combine a Glow LED Light session and follow with a Glow Pod session. Our Glow Pod reaches 180 degrees and warms the body from the inside out with dry infrared heat. This service burns calories and detoxes the body. We also have a Glow LED Light Hydro Facial. Our facial service is loved by people of all ages and leaves you looking and feeling like a more youthful you!

Outside our services, we offer one-on-one attention and coaching for diet plans and exercise. We believe in a full body and mind approach to reach your goals. At Glow we get just as excited as you do when you reach your dream weight, size or look! Our clients come from all over!

We don’t just services young or old or male or female, we service the public, and we have clients of all types and everyone is welcome at Glow Body Sculpting!

We also offer services, packages and pricing to meet any budget.

Our services start at only $30! We have monthly membership packages as well! And on top of that, we also offer payment plans that will give you the ability to GET IN THE GLOW no matter what! Our services are very reasonable, especially for the value you receive in just a few treatments. And way less expensive than fat reduction surgery, like liposuction, with no downtime!

For being a loyal reader of BayouLife, mention this article and receive 15% off your package purchase! If you are soon to be married or just married and want to get honeymoon ready, mention this ad and get 20% off!

We can’t wait to meet you and for you to GET YOU IN THE GLOW! Located in Ruston at 2314 Commons Court just off 33, from I-20 take exit 86 and head towards Farmerville, away from town and we are about 1 and ½ miles down on the left! Reach us anytime at 318-224-8884, info@ glowbodysculpting.com, www.glowbodysculpting.com, Facebook and Instagram!

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FAMILY EYE CARE

COBURN’S

MATERIAL THINGS

3B OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT

GOVERNOR’S CIGAR & PIPE FIESTA NUTRITION CENTER

AZURE POOLS AND SPAS

HOLLIS & COMPANY

THE MUFFIN TIN

CPS POOLS AND SPAS SLEEPY HOLLOW OUTDOOR

THE PAPER MARKET PETALS & PEARLS

MARTY AND MARK’S

SONNY PANZICO’S GARDEN MART

TONORE’S WINE CELLAR

WASHINGTON WINE & SPIRITS

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COBURN’S

B&L MARINE

GOVERNOR’S CIGAR & PIPE

MATERIAL THINGS

ARLETTE

RODEO BOUTIQUE

KEY MILLWORK

LEGENDS 32 CIGAR & VAPE LOUNGE

AZURE POOLS AND SPAS

BALDWIN’S ANTIQUE JEWLERY

SLEEPY HOLLOW FURNITURE RON ALEXANDER CLOTHIERS FOR MEN

LEGENDS 32 CIGAR & VAPE LOUNGE

SONNY PANZICO’S GARDEN MART

WASHINGTON WINE & SPIRITS

STEVE’S JEWLERY

SPA NOUVELLE

THE PAPER MARKET

3B OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT

LEWIS GIFTS THE MUFFIN TIN

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THE HUMAN JUKEBOX

JOSH MADDEN IS NO STRANGER TO THE NORTH LOUISIANA MUSIC SCENE. HE’S BEEN DUBBED THE HUMAN JUKEBOX BECAUSE OF HIS FAMILIARITY WITH A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT MUSIC GENRES. ARTICLE BY VANELIS RIVERA & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW BAILEY

BAYOUBEATS | J O S H M A D D E N

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hose of us who have been learn songs. He did this by listening to a wedding can attest to to records and cassettes, playing them the awkward dancefloor over and over again, hitting rewind musical chairs of who and trying again, following the notes is going to get the party on the piano as best he could. He started first. Sometimes it’s only in the learned Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Great Balls last hour, when liquid courage takes of Fire” and “You Win Again” on his hold, when the dancefloor becomes grandparents’ turntable and the likes the nonstop mania that a lively party of Creedence Clearwater Revival and merits. While it may be tempting to Lynyrd Skynyrd. hire a DJ for a wedding, if you hire After graduating from the live musicians, the party at your University of Louisiana at Monroe in reception is already beginning on 2003, Madden began to acclimate to stage. Even then, the most seasoned the Monroe music scene. He began musician knows that luring the crowd playing gigs once a month, but in is often about playing the right song. a span of about two years found Local favorite, Josh Madden is one of himself playing every week. “You those musicians. Once he figures out name it, I’ve played there,” he says. what a crowd wants, he’s “jumping One of his favorite joints is Enoch’s all over the place to keep them in that Pub and Grill. “It’s a great live vibe,” says Madden. audience. They get into the music,” he Madden has been called the says. In the amount of time Madden Human Jukebox for years. He has been jamming around town, attributes this to the wide variety he’s gone through a few bands and of music that he’s been drawn to, rotating music mates. One of the first especially during his upbringing. was called Rock Bottom, and the next “I listen to everything, and I play Five Mile Slough, an ode to a ditch everything,” he says. He shares his behind his house, which runs into “A good musician will be able to adapt to the hometown, Goodwill, Louisiana, the Boeuf River. Madden also used crowd. You may come with a set list and the with famed songwriter and blues, to be the band leader for local Elvis swamp-rock musician Tony Joe impersonator Todd C. Martin. audience not respond. So that keeps you White. “Lots of people have covered

Currently, Madden’s core band having to know how to improvise.” his songs. Elvis. Tina Turner,” says has been consistent for the past 5 to Madden. At the 2016 NELA Music 6 years. Bassist Jeff Hicks contributes Awards, where White was inducted into the hall of fame, Madden backup vocals. Hicks has been playing for about 20 years and is was asked to cover some of his most well known songs, such as “Polk member of bluegrass band NOMOJO. On drums is Mike Martinez, Salad Annie” and “Rainy Night in Georgia.” who has played in a professional rock band by the name of Heaven.

“Back in the day,” recalls Madden “You had to play where you Also contributing backup vocals is guitarist Keith Patterson, called could and learn music where you could. And usually that was “the ol’ general.” Patterson has opened for acclaimed musicians such church.” His grandmother was the main piano player in church, as Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakam and Blues Traveler. At times he’ll while his mom took over the keyboard organ. His father also played add saxophone player Chris Moravek and trumpet player Shelby the piano, “more of a blues, Jerry Lee Lewis-type of piano.” It was his McCarty. father’s style that Madden adapted to-- “I picked up some licks from

A veteran in his own right, Madden averages 120 gigs a year, and him, the way he played a little bit.” Since he could reach the keys, of those 15-20 are weddings. His versatility of sound and performance Madden has been messing with the piano, his main instrument of is what keeps him busy. He likes to give his clients options. You choice. can choose to hire him as a solo artist, add 2-3 musicians, or do the

Though he doesn’t play anymore, his instrument of choice at ultimate sweep the studio deal of 8 musicians, which includes his 13 was the drums. He recalls performing “Blueberry Hill” at a high core group (guitar, drum, bass, piano), 1-2 horns, extra guitar player, school talent show. Everytime he did a drum roll he would speed up and/or percussion. He’s even got a couple of guys that play conga out of sheer excitement. He ended up picking up the guitar at 14 and and bongos, if you want to make things interesting. “If you catch then returning to the piano around 15 to 16. Since the closest music Elton John nowadays, he uses a six piece [band], including himself,” store was an hour away, Madden had to make use of what he could to explains Madden.

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JOSH MADDEN GIVES US THE SKINNY ON HIS FAVORITE WEDDING RECEPTION SONGS

FIRST DANCE SONG: “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran “You are the Best Thing”

by Ray LaMontagne “Amazed” Lonestar “A Thousand Years” Christina Perri “Make You Feel My Love” Adele

FATHER/DAUGHTER: “I Loved Her First” by Heartland “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle “Dance with my Daughter”

by Jason Blaine “My Girl” by The Temptations “My Little Girl” by Tim Mcgraw

MOTHER/SON “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts “Have I Told You Lately”

by Rod Stewart “Loves Me Like a Rock” by Paul Simon “You Are the Sunshine of My Life”

by Stevie Wonder “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

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aving a source of inspiration like Elton John, one can only imagine the type of show that Madden can deliver. “A good musician will be able to adapt to the crowd. You may come with a set list, and the audience not respond. So that keeps you having to know how to improvise,” says Madden. While “Footloose” usually will pull the most withheld guest, Madden knows that’s not always a guaranteed crowd pleaser. He makes it a point to observe what the crowd is tapping their feet to, nodding their head to, and singing along to. At most shows, Madden can be seen juggling between the guitar and the piano.

He has played all piano gigs before, but he’s a man lead by variety. He likes pairing his instrument to what a song demands. While he’s on the piano for a song like “Bennie and the Jets,” he’ll get up and strap on his guitar for “Billie Jean.”

When he plays gigs, he’s a crowd pleaser, particularly when it comes to weddings. If he is playing for a wedding gig or a party and they love country music, “we’ll play all country music, all night long. Classic rock mixed in and some stuff.” If they’re playing for a younger crowd they’ll play 90s rock with some 2000s mixed in there. Clients are able to request songs via Madden’s impressive song book. It’s a list of about 600 songs, but he says it doesn’t come close to listing everything he can produce. You can make a couple dozen suggestions that will allow Madden to get an idea of what else he can play. He’s noticed that most brides don’t want to play the what-everyone-else-isdoing songs. They want to choose something that’s meaningful to them for their intimate and personal dances, which is why he encourages clients to request songs for him to learn, as long as it’s in advance. For a recent wedding, he learned Chris Stapleton’s

“Millionaire” and Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child of Mine” for a father-daughter dance.

He learned one for a wedding a few years ago that made its way into his setlist, “Feet Don’t Touch the Ground” by Stoney LaRue. He also learned “Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon, only playing it that once, but he enjoyed learning it for the occasion.

He does write his own songs aside from his gigs, which are mostly covers. “The stuff I write is as varied as the stuff I play,” he says. “I’m all over the place.” He wrote an “upbeat, country blue-grassy” song, which was recorded at Enoch’s one night with another band. The song is called “Devil in my Head.” His writing process usually revolves around a phrase, which he’ll write around when it hits him. That phrase might end up being the chorus, might be the name of the song, or might end up just being a line in the verse. It’s a very nonlinear type of work, navigating through the construction of lyrics and melody. He’s not going to write a song the same way twice.

Madden’s the type of musician that isn’t seeking a monopoly of the music scene, though it seems like he has one. If he can’t play a gig, he makes sure to suggest other local talents like Joel Jordan (Reverend Joel David), Josh Love and Jordan Shepeard.

These guys are all on his list when someone calls and he can’t do a gig. He wants “all musicians to work,” because there is plenty of work to go around. “You gotta help out your fellow musicians.”

With the ability to play more than 1,000 songs and always willing to learn new ones, Madden has no reason to be coy about his skills. He welcomes a challenge and a change. It’s fun for him to do things he hasn’t been playing. As he would say, “Put a quarter in me” and take him up on his offer.

You can book Josh Madden or his band on their website https://www.joshmaddenband.com or call at 318-237-3107.

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Annual Home Tour On April 28th, The Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum hosted their Annual Home Tour and Luncheon. Dallas-based fragrance designer, Niven Morgan, was the guest speaker at the luncheon, which was followed by a quick Q&A with attendees. Lunch was prepared by Cory Bahr, owner of Parish Restaurant and Heritage Catering, before guests began the tour of homes. After lunch, guests were treated with a surprise gift of Niven Morgan samples and had the opportunity purchase his products. This year’s Home Tour sponsors included: Vanguard Realty, John Rea Realty, Keller Williams and Hayes Harkey Title, LLC. Special thanks to Leigh Ann and Stacey Goff for hosting a cocktail party at their home for sponsors and special guests.

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On the BayouScene 1A shley Ellis and Rhonda Neal 2 Leigh Ann Goff and Niven Morgan 3 Martha Anderson and Cindy Smith 4 Noreen Smith and Sharon Brown 5M elissa Saye and Bruce McKoin 6 Stephanie Perry, Kathy Bower and Leighann Ford 7 Carole Kilpatrick and Teresa Shelton 8 Yvette Greer and Sondra LaCroix 9 J ohn Kennedy and Caroline Youngblood 10 Ginny Yatco and Martha Anderson 11 Friday and Ashley Ellis, Laura Marchelos and Robin Fincher 12 Denise Hull and Paige Smith 13 Carolyn Clark and Judy Crow 14 Leigh Ann Goff, Niven Morgan and Linda Reeves 15 Katie, Merry and Lori Thompson 16 C allie Parkman and Suzanne Rainer 17 Dianna Davison and Beth Riley 18 Leigh Ann Goff, Hannah Salsbury and Tina Laird 19 Libby Jacka Lund and Mary Sue Jacka

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ENGAGING

Designs

Every bride deserves the best on her wedding day. Whether you need something old, new, borrowed or blue, these bridal baubles will have you picture perfect on your wedding day.

Photography by TAYLOR BENNETT, model ANNA GRACE LIVINGSTON, makeup

by VICTORIA ALEXANDER, dresses available at MAGNOLIA MARIÉE

STEVE’S JEWELRY

A gorgeous 14k white gold Gabriel ring with a 1.14 ct. radiant cut center diamond with .81 ct. of diamonds surrounding it takes center stage. The bracelet is a 14k Natalie K. diamond bracelet with 2.44 ct. of diamonds. A delicate custom designed necklace features a 1.28 ct. solitaire round brilliant center diamond with .68 ct. of diamonds accenting it. The look is complete with these 14k white gold diamond drop earrings with 1.78 ct. of diamonds.

BALDWIN’S JEWELRY

Classic pearls get an elegant twist with the addition of a platinum brooch with 3 ct. diamonds and sapphires. The engagment ring is a 1.02 ct. platinum ring with round cut diamonds. Anna Grace wears bracelets stacked on her left wrist – on the top is a platinum bracelet with 8 ct. of diamonds and sapphires, an intricately cut diamond bracelet in the center and a 2 ct. diamond and sapphire bracelet on the bottom. On her right wrist is a frosted diamond bracelet surrounded by pearls and the cocktail ring is a platinum set ring with 3 ct. of diamonds.

DUPONT JEWELERS

This breathtaking necklace features a lovely bow decoration in 18k white gold and sapphires with diamond halo graduated stones.

The bracelet is an Art Deco style 18k white gold diamond and sapphire with 4.5 ct. total weight.

The ring is a custom designed engagement ring with a .75 ct center diamond. The earrings are white gold cocktail setting with 1.70 ct. diamonds.

HOLLIS & COMPANY JEWELERS

A statement necklace like this antique Edwardian garland necklace (Circa 1910) with 2.85 total weight diamonds and set in platinum takes center stage. Anna Grace wears antique Victorian platinum and European cut diamonds (Circa 1860) with 4.50 ct. total weight. The bracelet is a antique Art Deco platinum and diamond bracelet (Circa 1925). On her right hand, she wears a diamond eternity band set in platinum with a 4.41 ct. total weight. The engagment ring is a antique Art Deco ring (Circa 1925) with 2.64 ct. European cut diamond center stone, set in platinum.

MARTY & MARK’S

Anna Grace is wearing a radiant pendant in 14k white gold set with 1.00 ct. center stone surrounded by diamonds. The diamond engagement ring is set with a radiant cut 1.70 ct. diamond in center surrounded on both sides with diamonds with a total diamond weight of 3 ct. She is also wearing antique style diamond earrings with white and blue diamonds.

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Blend of the Bayou

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On May 6th, the Men Who Cook, Mix and Brew took over the beautiful Island Drive home of Sue and Dr. Walter Sartor for the annual Blend of the Bayou celebration, which benefits the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. Grill masters, cooks, drink mixers and brew masters donned their aprons for the event, serving up locally-brewed beers, specialty cocktails and more than a few delicious morsels.

The Sartor family’s driveway became a wellcurated art gallery, featuring works from area artists. Local favorite LA Jazz Quartet were on hand to provide entertainment for the 21st Annual Blend of the Bayou celebration.

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On the BayouScene 1 Megan and J.W. Perry 2W allace and Carla Hardy and Dr. Jane and Gus Campbell 3K atherine Flowers and Stacey Majure 4 Jeanne and Steve Taylor, and Scott and Kathy Hart 5 Alex Schoot and Danielle Kelley Tolbird 6 Frederick West, Nat Smith and Tim Kane 7 Jeff and Rebecca Leaumont 8R obert and Emily Lane, Marty Bass, Kirsty Webster, Brian and Allison Jones 9 Alpa Patel and Leslie Murphy 10 Melissa Kiper, John Shepard, Allison and Kelli Blakely 11 Amy and Damon Marsala and Julie Verlander 12 Karen McClendon and Wendy Napoli 13 Chip and Lila Strode 14 H eath Davis, Andrew Hubenthal, Trent Livingston and Wes Singley 15 DeSha and Kara Sims 16 David Dickey, Thurman Dickey and Ken Dickey 17 Ashley West, Lauren Davis, Jason and Gretchen Tiser 18 Larry Lockeby, Jack Green and John Burson 19 Sarah Heatherly, Ashton Mintz and Emma Loyless

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Calendar of Events For a full list of event happenings in Northeast Louisiana, see our website at www.bayoulifemag.com May 29 - June 1 Beginning Stained Glass Workshop for Adults

This workshop will teach the student how to build a small stainedglass panel using the Louis Comfort Tiffany method. Students will learn a brief history of stained glass, pick out a pattern, learn to cut glass, put together a panel using copper foil and solder their panel. The class will be (4) two-hour sessions.

Registration includes stained glass and basic supplies. Space is limited, and reservations are required. No prior experience is necessary.

Location: Masur Museum of Art1400 South Grand, Monroe Hours: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $160 museum members / $180 non – members Phone: (318) 329-2237 June 1 New Music on the Bayou Concert at Grace Episcopal Church

Composers from around the world descend on Monroe/West Monroe to have their chamber music performed by area musicians for the Northeast Louisiana communities.

Pieces include everything from piano solos to small chamber groups with winds and percussion. The style of pieces encompasses an indescribable range from traditional vocal/ instrumental works to avant garde music utilizing exotic instruments and modern playing techniques.

Come listen, meet the composers, and talk to them about their ideas on music and life! Concert #3 contains “A Certain Slant of Light” - a work for organ, percussion, and brass choir that is a finalist in the 2018 American Prize competition.

Location: Grace Episcopal Church405 Glenmar Ave, Monroe Hours: 2:00 p.m.

Cost: Free Phone: (318) 680-1171 New Music on the Bayou Festival Concert at ULM

Composers from around the world descend on Monroe/

West Monroe to have their music performed by area musicians for the communities of Northeast Louisiana.

The musical works include everything from piano solo to chamber works with winds, voice and percussion.

The style of pieces ranges from traditional vocal/instrumental music to avant-garde works utilizing exotic instruments and modern playing techniques. Come listen to the music, meet the composers and ask them about their ideas on music and life! Concert #4 features Duo Per Se, a chamber group that includes local clarinetist, Scot Humes, and New York pianist, Tania Tachkova.

Location: ULM Emy-Lou Biedenharn Recital Hall- 700 University Ave., Monroe Hours: 7:00 p.m.

Cost: Free Phone: (318) 680-1171 June 2 New Music on the Bayou Festival Concert at Black Bayou

Composers from around the world descend on Monroe/ West Monroe to have their music performed by area musicians for the communities of Northeast Louisiana.

The musical works include everything from piano solo to chamber works with winds, voice, and percussion.

The style of pieces ranges from traditional vocal/instrumental music to avant-garde works utilizing exotic instruments and modern playing techniques. Come listen to the music, meet the composers, and ask them about their ideas on music and life! Concert #5 features the unique setting of the Black Bayou Wildlife refuge. Come at 10 a.m. and wander the bayou with the composers while ambient music rings throughout the space. Stay for the formal concert at 11 a.m. at the amphitheater that will feature works by composers from places that never have alligators within shouting distance of the musical stage!

Location: Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Hours: 10:00 a.m.

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Cost: Free Phone: (318)680-1171 DoMo BrewFest

At Brewfest, distributors, breweries, and home-brewers from across Louisiana will come together to show attendees a fun time. Ticket holders enjoy the opportunity to sample over 150 types of beer at this event. The evening will also feature live music and delicious local food.

Location: RiverMarket- 316 South Grand, Monroe Hours: 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Cost: Tickets are $35 when purchased online Phone: (318) 329-3254 New Music on the Bayou Concert and Reception at Strauss Theatre

Composers from around the world descend on Monroe/ West Monroe to have their music performed by area musicians for the communities of Northeast Louisiana. The musical works include everything from piano solo to chamber works with winds, voice, and percussion. The style of pieces ranges from traditional vocal/ instrumental music to avant-garde works utilizing exotic instruments and modern playing techniques.

Come listen to the music, meet the composers and ask them about their ideas on music and life! Concert #6 is a formal concert featuring some of the most stellar new music from around the world. It also features new choreography from both local and national choreographers set on local dancers from Twin City Ballet Company. The winner of the Black Bayou Composition Award will be announced, and a reception will follow with plenty of food, drink and opportunities to mingle with composers and musicians.

Location: Strauss Theatre Center1300 Lamy Lane, Monroe Hours: 7:00 p.m.

Cost: $20 Phone: (318)680-1171 June 5 Theology on Tuesdays

Stop by Flying Tiger for a lively discussion of contemporary topics from a Christian perspective.

Come by for a drink, fellowship and conversation.

Location: Flying Tiger Brewery- 506 North 2nd Street, Monroe Hours: 6:00 p.m.

Phone: (318) 547-1738 June 8 2018 Dream Hunt Golf Tournament in Monroe

Come take part in the first ever Dream Hunt golf tournament in Monroe. The tournament will be held at Frenchman’s Bend. It’s a 4-man scramble with a maximum of 25 teams. Registration at 12:30 p.m.

Shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. Raffles, prizes and awards at 6:00pm We will also have a band that plays in the club house from 7-10 p.m. You can register online.

Location: Frenchman’s Bend Golf Course- 1484 Frenchman’s Bend, Monroe Hours: 12:30 - 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $400 per team; $100 for a hole sponsor; $500 for a combo (team and hole sponsor) June 8-10 Rad Movie Hell Track- BMX

Come and enjoy this thrilling BMX racing event held in Monroe.

Location: Monroe Civic Center- 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: Jun 8 at 3 p.m. to Jun 10 at 6 p.m.

Phone: (318) 329-2225 June 9 Zoobilation 2018 This event is hosted by the Louisiana Purchase Zoological Society, a nonprofit organization, that raises funds for the upkeep and continued growth of the zoo and helps facilitate projects such as restoring our beloved train.

Location: Louisiana Purchase Zoo1405 Bernstein Park Road, Monroe Hours: 10:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Phone: (318) 329-2400

Dutch Oven cooking demonstration at Poverty Point Reservoir State Park

The second Saturday of the month, Poverty Point Reservoir State Park will be having a Dutch Oven Cooking event. The park will host the Poverty Point Cookers, a chapter of the Louisiana Dutch Oven Society, for a cooking demonstration and sampling. Participants can learn about this increasingly-popular form of cooking, the actual Dutch oven pots and much more.

Location: Poverty Point Reservoir State Park- 1500 Poverty Point Pkwy, Delhi Hours: 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.

Phone: (318) 878-7536 Bulls in the Streets

Bulls in the Streets, a premier event for downtown Monroe, will bring the spirit of Spain’s Running of the Bulls to participants and spectators alike - but with a jovial twist. Roller derby girls donning bull horns and armed with whiffleball bats will skate on the heels of those willing to run, crawl or walk to the one-mile finish-line. While the winner gets a trophy, the real draw for many will be the laughs and stories along the route as the roller girls “attack” runners with their bats. This thrilling fun-run event will benefit the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum and Monroe’s own Roe City Rollers roller derby team.

Location: Flying Tiger Brewery506 North 2nd Street, Monroe Hours: 11:00 a.m.

Cost: $5.00 - $15.00 Phone: (318) 362-5540 Landry Vineyards Concert Smackwater

Smackwater plays classic rock, R&B and dance music. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to relax on the lawn or call to reserve a table. Food and cold drinks are welcomed but please do not bring pets or outside alcohol.

The tasting room will open at 11:00 a.m. and will carry through to the end of the concert. Don’t miss out on the wagon tours that will be available through the vineyards during the concert. Come celebrate an afternoon of fun with your family and community!

Location: Landry Vineyards- 5699 New Natchitoches Road, West Monroe

Hours: 4:30- 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $10.00 adults young adults 1318 years $5.00 children 12 and under are free.

Phone: (318) 557-9051 June 16 2018 Louisiana State Games Disc Golf Tournament

Southern National Sanctioned Cost is $35.00 (all divisions) First 50 registered get a t-shirt. Awards for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in all divisions!

All residents of Louisiana who have lived in the state for at least 30 days prior to the date of competition for their sport are eligible if they meet the requirements specified by that sport. Louisiana residents attending school or serving in the military in other states are also eligible. Athletes living in Louisiana attending school/ university or currently serving in the military in Louisiana are also eligible to compete. Residents of Arkansas are invited to participate as well.

Location: Lazarre Park- Corner of Hamilton and Thompson, West Monroe Hours: 6:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $35.00 Roe City Rollers vs. Mobile Derby Darlings

Roe City Rollers is Monroe’s original roller derby league. Est. 2011. Roller Derby is a contact sport played by two teams of five members roller skating in the same direction around a track. Game play consists of a series of short matchups (“jams”) in which both teams designate a scoring player (the “jammer”) who scores points by lapping members of the opposing team.

Location: Monroe Civic Center- 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: Doors open at 6:00 p.m., games start at 7:00 p.m.

Phone: 318-329-2225 June 20 The Northeast Louisiana Summer Film: It’s All Over But to Cry

The Northeast Louisiana Summer Film Series continues with the screening of It’s All Over But to Cry. Louisiana’s spirit of survival meets the powers of Hurricane Audrey, the deadliest cyclone in American history. The Arts Council partners with Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge to feature this Louisiana-directed and

Louisiana-made film.

Location: Flying Tiger Brewery506 North 2nd Street, Monroe Hours: 8:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Cost: Tickets for non-members are $5. Arts Council members will receive free tickets Phone: (318) 547-1738 June 21-23 Miss Louisiana Pageant

Come support your favorite contestants at the Miss Louisiana Pageant. The contestants will dazzle you while they compete in interview, talent, swimsuit and evening gown.

Miss Louisiana 2018 will be crowned Saturday night following the final competition.

Location: Monroe Civic Center- 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, Monroe Hours: Thursday: 8:00 p.m.; Friday: 8:00 p.m.; Saturday 7:30 p.m.

Phone: (318) 329-2225 June 22-23 Bonus Summer Musical: Hairspray

It’s 1962 in Baltimore, and the lovable plus-size teen, Tracy Turnblad, has only one desire – to dance on the popular “Corny Collins Show.” When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob, Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network... all without denting her ‘do!

Location: Strauss Youth Academy for the Arts- 1300 1/2 Lamy Lane, Monroe Hours: Fri., June 22 at 7:00 p.m. Sat., June 23 at 2:00 p.m.

Cost: Students and Kids- $10 Adults$14 Phone: 318-812-7922

Hours: 12:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Cost: General admission: $5 vehicle registration: $20 kids 5 and under: free Phone: (318) 325-9160 Downtown Cinema Presents: Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

Take a visit to Toon Town with Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

Downtown Cinema will have free popcorn and water just bring your own seating. The movie starts at dark.

Location: Palace Park- 220 DeSiard Street, Monroe Hours: 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.

Enjoy your stay in MonroeWest Monroe!

We at the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitor’s Bureau hope you have a great stay here!

Please feel free to call us at 800-843-1872 if you have any questions. You may also stop by our offices at 601 Constitution Drive, West Monroe for brochures, coupons and additional information.

Visit www.monroe-westmonroe. org for information about events in Ouachita Parish and visit www.rustonlincoln.com for events in Lincoln Parish.

June 30 Street BEAST “Unleashed”

This car show will have fun for the whole family! Enter your car for the chance to win one of these great trophies, 6”-foot best of show trophy, 5”-foot Team rep trophy, Top 20 best of show, Plus 5 specialty trophies. There will be jump houses and water slides for the kids, live DJ, all you can eat hot dogs and a huge firework show!

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